© 2023 Springhill Home Health & Hospice
All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved
Text JoinTeam to 97211 to learn more about career opportunities today!
Text JoinTeam to 97211 to learn more about career opportunities today!
Urology Awareness Month is an annual campaign to raise awareness of urological diseases and conditions. It is celebrated every September and is a great opportunity to learn more about your urological health and the importance of early detection.
Urology is the medical specialty that deals with the urinary tract and male reproductive organs. Some of the most common urological diseases include:
• Prostate cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Erectile dysfunction
• Incontinence
These diseases can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. They can cause pain, discomfort, and even death. Early detection and treatment are essential for improving the chances of a good outcome.
There are a number of things you can do to improve your urological health. These include:
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding smoking
• Getting regular checkups with your doctor
If you are experiencing any urological symptoms, such as pain, burning, or blood in your urine, it is important to see your doctor right away. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in the outcome of your condition.
Urology Awareness Month is a great time to learn more about your urological health and the importance of early detection. There are a number of resources available to help you, including:
• The Urology Care Foundation website: https://www.urologyhealth.org/
• The American Urological Association website: https://www.auanet.org/
• The National Kidney Foundation website: https://www.kidney.org/
Home health and urology can partner up in a number of ways to provide comprehensive care to patients with urological conditions. Some of the ways they can partner include:
Home health nurses can provide wound care, catheter care, and other post-surgical services to patients who have undergone urological surgery. This can help to ensure that patients have a smooth recovery and that they are able to return home as soon as possible.
Home health nurses can help patients with chronic urological conditions, such as prostate cancer or kidney disease, to manage their symptoms and to adhere to their treatment plans. This can help to improve patients’ quality of life and to reduce the risk of complications.
Home health nurses can provide education and support to patients with urological conditions and their families. This can help patients to understand their condition, to manage their symptoms, and to cope with the emotional and physical challenges of living with a urological condition.
In addition to these specific services, home health and urology can also partner to provide a number of other services, such as:
Home health nurses can work with urologists to coordinate care and to ensure that patients receive the right care at the right time. This can help to improve the quality of care and to reduce the risk of errors.
Home health nurses can refer patients to urologists for further evaluation or treatment. This can help to ensure that patients receive the care they need.
Home health nurses can provide education to patients about urological conditions and about the services that are available. This can help patients to make informed decisions about their care.
The partnership between home health and urology can provide a number of benefits to patients with urological conditions. These benefits include:
By working together, home health and urology can provide patients with comprehensive care that is coordinated and tailored to their individual needs.
By providing education and support, home health and urology can help patients to manage their symptoms and to adhere to their treatment plans. This can help to reduce the risk of complications.
Patients who receive care from a home health and urology partnership often report being more satisfied with their care. This is because they feel that they are receiving the care they need from a team of professionals who are working together to meet their individual needs.
Overall, the partnership between home health and urology can provide a number of benefits to patients with urological conditions. By working together, these two disciplines can provide comprehensive, coordinated, and patient-centered care.
To learn more, please speak with one of our Account Executives today!
When it comes to hospice care, our team is focused solely on providing comfort and pain-free care to hospice care patients. For both hospice patients and their families, coping with terminal illness brings about a wide array of emotional worries and concerns. In addition to emotional stress, those with congestive heart failure (CHF) may also feel uncomfortable physically.
Congestive heart failure (CHF) occurs when a person’s heart can no longer pump blood well throughout the body. As a result, patients may experience symptoms such as chest pain, fluid retention, shortness of breath, and other uncomfortable symptoms related to breathing. For patients experiencing these symptoms, certain medications such as Lasix may help enhance comfort while on hospice care.
People with congestive heart failure (CHF) may experience swelling and edema throughout the body. This symptom can be uncomfortable, causing a person to have abdominal swelling and ankle/leg swelling. CHF can also cause swelling in the lungs in some patients.
To help combat this, Lasix is a diuretic medication (water pill) that helps reduce this uncomfortable swelling. Lasix works by preventing the body from absorbing too much salt, which means less fluid retention.
Hospice patients on diuretic medications may need support from their hospice care team. This medication can make patients need to urinate more frequently and require additional hydration. The Adobe Hospice team is here to support patients on Lasix and aid in managing symptoms and side effects.
Taking care of symptom management and enhancing comfort is a vital component of hospice care. If you or a loved one is experiencing unpleasant symptoms of heart failure, speak to your hospice team. Based on each person’s needs, our nurses can help administer medications that can provide comfort for hospice patients. To learn more, contact one of our Community Liaisons today!
We observe Sepsis Awareness Month in September as a time to raise awareness of this life-threatening condition. Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection, and it can quickly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
Sepsis is a medical emergency that occurs when the body’s response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs. The infection can start anywhere in the body, but the most common sites are the lungs, urinary tract, and skin.
The signs and symptoms of sepsis can vary depending on the person and the severity of the infection. However, some common signs include:
• Fever
• Chills
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid heart rate
• Confusion
• Low blood pressure
• Pale or mottled skin
• Rash
• Seizures
• Extreme pain or general discomfort
If you think you or someone you know may have sepsis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Sepsis is treated with antibiotics and fluids. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary to remove the source of the infection.
The best way to prevent sepsis is to prevent infections in the first place. This can be done by:
• Washing your hands often with soap and water
• Getting vaccinated against common infections, such as pneumonia and the flu
• Taking care of cuts and scrapes
• Practicing safe sex
In addition to raising awareness, Sepsis Awareness Month is a time to encourage people to learn the signs and symptoms. By knowing the signs and symptoms, you can help save lives.
Here are some ways you can help raise awareness of sepsis during September:
• Wear a purple ribbon, the color of sepsis awareness
• Talk to your friends and family about sepsis
• Share information about sepsis on social media
• Donate to a sepsis awareness organization
Together, we can help raise awareness of sepsis and save lives.
This year from September 10th through September 16th, join us in celebrating Assisted Living Week 2023. We celebrate this week to recognize all the amazing people involved in assisted living facilities (ALF), including staff, volunteers, and hospice and home healthcare professionals.
This year’s Assisted Living Week has been given a “Season of Reflection” theme, designed to symbolize the staff in assisted living facilities that go above and beyond to make these facilities feel like home for residents.
We strive to maintain strong partnerships with hospice and home healthcare professionals. Many patients interested in home care come from assisted living facilities, which means a change of environment and transition of care is required. Our team works closely with staff in assisted living facilities to help make the transition to home as easy as possible. Working closely with a patient’s care team ensures a smoother transition with fewer setbacks, supporting the patient to help regain independence in their own home.
In addition to home healthcare services, we offer supportive hospice care to those in assisted living facilities. Our hospice services can be provided no matter where a patient is located, which includes patients living in assisted living facilities. Working closely with staff at assisted living facilities, together, we can create as comfortable an environment as possible for those who are terminally ill. Our goal is to help individuals live their final days, weeks, or months with respect, peace, and dignity.
We want to recognize the profound role that employers of assisted living facilities have on patients. Furthermore, we want to remind staff that we are here to help, creating partnerships that help us all thrive. Join us in raising awareness and celebrating Assisted Living Week 2023 by using the hashtag #NALW on social media posts.
Healthy Aging Month is an annual observance, dedicated to promoting healthy aging for seniors. The month of September was chosen for this observance because it is the month that marks the beginning of the fall season, a time when many seniors begin to think about their health and well-being.
The purpose of Healthy Aging Month is to raise awareness of the importance of healthy aging and to provide resources and information to help seniors live their best lives. The observance is also a time to celebrate the achievements of older adults and to recognize their contributions to society.
As the population of the United States continues to age, the importance of healthy aging is becoming increasingly clear. By 2030, it is estimated that there will be over 70 million adults over the age of 65 in the United States. This means that there will be a greater need for services and programs that support healthy aging.
There are many benefits to healthy aging. Seniors who are physically and mentally healthy are more likely to be independent and self-sufficient. They are also more likely to participate in social activities and to contribute to their communities. Healthy aging can also help to prevent chronic diseases and disabilities, which can lead to costly medical care.
There are many things that can be done to promote healthy aging. Some of the most important include:
A healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. It is also important to limit unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt.
Exercise is essential for maintaining physical health and preventing chronic diseases. Adults over the age of 65 should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week.
If you have a chronic condition, such as heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis, it is important to manage it effectively. This may involve taking medication, following a special diet, or getting regular exercise.
Social interaction is important for mental health and well-being. Stay connected with friends and family and participate in activities that you enjoy.
Adults over the age of 65 need 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
There are many resources available to help seniors live healthy lives. Some of these resources include:
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) provides information on a variety of topics related to healthy aging, including nutrition, exercise, and chronic diseases.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provides information on healthy aging. The CDC’s website includes a section on “Aging and Health” that provides information on a variety of topics, such as falls prevention, elder abuse, and dementia.
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is a non-profit organization that provides a variety of services and resources to older adults. NCOA’s website includes a section on “Healthy Aging” that provides information on a variety of topics, such as staying active, managing chronic conditions, and financial planning.
Healthy Aging Month is a time to focus on the importance of healthy aging and to provide resources and information to help seniors live longer, healthier lives. By following the tips outlined above, seniors can improve their overall health and well-being and enjoy a more fulfilling life.
September is National Cholesterol Education Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of managing cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs to function. However, too much cholesterol can build up in your arteries, leading to plaque formation. Plaque can narrow your arteries, making it difficult for blood to flow through them. This can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health problems.
There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is known as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in your arteries. HDL is known as “good” cholesterol because it helps to remove LDL from your arteries.
The goal of cholesterol management is to keep your LDL levels low and your HDL levels high. You can do this by making changes to your diet, exercising regularly, and taking medication if necessary.
If you are a senior, you are at an increased risk for high cholesterol. This is because your body produces less HDL as you age. You may also be more likely to have other risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
If you are a senior and you are concerned about your cholesterol levels, talk to your doctor. They can help you assess your risk and develop a plan to manage your cholesterol.
Here are some tips for managing cholesterol levels in seniors:
• Eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
• Choose lean protein sources, such as fish, chicken, and beans.
• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol.
• Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
• If necessary, take medication to lower your cholesterol.
Managing cholesterol levels is an important part of maintaining good heart health. By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
National Cholesterol Education Month is a great time to learn more about cholesterol and how to manage your levels. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors and what you can do to keep your heart healthy.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This annual event is an important reminder that vaccination is one of the safest and most effective strategies for preventing transmissible diseases. Each year, millions of people of all ages benefit from receiving vaccines.
Older adults are particularly susceptible to certain vaccine-preventable illnesses and are at higher risk of serious compilations from illnesses, such as the flu. Getting vaccinated as an adult can reduce the risk of health issues related to vaccine-preventable conditions.
There are more than 55 million people over the age of 65 in the United States. Older adults are often more medically vulnerable than younger people. Illnesses such as pneumonia or influenza can lead to serious complications, resulting in hospitalization, prolonged illness, or death.
To protect the health of older adults, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccines to protect older adults from illnesses that could seriously damage their health.
Adults at high risk of meningitis, hepatitis A and B, or Hib may need additional vaccines to prevent those illnesses. Adults who travel may need vaccines for diseases prevalent in their destinations.
Many doctor’s offices and pharmacies offer vaccinations. Medicare Part B and Part D cover certain vaccines, as do private insurance plans. Some workplaces or community organizations offer free or discounted vaccines to people who might otherwise be unable to afford them.
To learn more about recommended vaccinations for people of all ages, visit the CDC’s vaccine schedule or talk to a doctor about what vaccines you need.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/pneumo/public/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/downloads/adult/adult-combined-schedule.pdf
This August, join us in helping to highlight Medical Alert Awareness Month! With recent advances in technology, aging adults have more resources available to help them maintain independence at home. Aging adults living alone can greatly benefit from medical alert devices, which are designed to keep them safe and independent.
Medical alert devices can be either portable or in-home, depending on the needs and preferences of each patient. Below, learn more about the benefits of medical alert devices and how they can improve the home health of seniors living independently.
Medical alert devices are one of the easiest ways to help enhance the health and safety of aging adults alone in their homes. Medical alert devices detect serious falls and call for help when an individual cannot reach the phone. Furthermore, some wearable medical alert devices can allow the person to call for help or call for emergency services from anywhere.
Even for aging adults with supportive home health care, medical alert devices can help provide loved ones peace of mind when help is not present. Some newer medical alert devices can even text, call, or email family members when an aging adult needs help.
Medical alert devices are a great solution for elderly patients who want to maintain their independence at home. With support options such as home health care and medical alert devices, seniors can continue living in the place they are most comfortable — their homes.
Physicians and medical staff can do their part in promoting medical alert awareness month by informing patients and their families of available options that can help improve their loved one’s health and safety. Providing information and guidance about choosing medical alert devices can help encourage seniors to thrive in their homes, ensuring their safety even when alone.
People sidestep discussing or even thinking about death for good reason. Though death is ominous, it is also inevitable. We recommend that those who have not made a will and advanced directive should seize the opportunity to do so.
Make life less stressful by meeting with an estate planning attorney to create a will. In particular, if you’re in your golden years, you will enjoy invaluable peace of mind with the creation of a will. Moreover, if you’re suffering from a serious medical condition, regardless of your age, you will also need a will.
Expressing desires for the distribution of assets to an estate planning attorney sets the stage for the creation of a will. The will is copied thrice; one copy remains with the estate planning attorney, another copy is given to the client, and a third is filed with the local probate court.
Desires for the distribution of a house, car, investments, cash savings and other assets will be executed exactly as stated in the will. The alternative is to die intestate, meaning without a will. Intestate death spurs a potentially lengthy and divisive probate process that does not guarantee assets will be distributed fairly.
Advanced directives are necessary in addition to a will. An advanced directive is a legal document that states a person’s wishes about receiving medical care. Advanced directives are especially important for patients in hospice care who might not be capable of communicating their desires to care providers and medical professionals. If an advanced directive is on file, those desires will be fulfilled exactly as expressed when the legal document was created at the point when the patient was of sound mind.
As an example, an advanced directive contains information about how one is to be cared for at the end of life while in a hospital bed or assisted living center. There are several different types of advanced directives. One such advance directive is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order that communicates one’s desire not to be resuscitated in the event of loss of consciousness or another life-threatening event.
Another example of an advance directive is the Medical Power of Attorney. Also referred to as the Medical POA for short, this legal document explains how one’s medical care is to be provided toward the end of life. The medical power of attorney identifies the specific party who will make medical decisions on behalf of the patient.
A living will is distinct from the aforementioned legal documents as it details the medical treatments a patient desires after suffering incapacitation and at the end of his or her life. The living will is also used to communicate the forms of medical care a patient does not desire. This legal tool is different from a traditional will in that it does not communicate one’s desires for the distribution of assets.
Examples of the desires communicated in living wills include:
Such matters are critically important when one is in significant cognitive decline or suffering a terminal illness.
Life changes in meaningful and unpredictable ways, necessitating the updating of one’s will to reflect those changes. An estate planning attorney will change the language of the will to correspond to the gain/loss of assets or other life events.
As an example, if one inherits assets from a parent, spouse, sibling or other party, the will should be altered to reflect the addition of those assets. Moreover, if one spends down assets when transitioning through the golden years, transferring money to offspring or other parties, the will should accurately reflect the new financial situation. Even life events such as divorce, remarriage and moving to a new property require an update of one’s will.
Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S. and causes more deaths than any other cancer.
World Lung Cancer Day is observed every year to raise awareness about the importance of preventing lung cancer and to support ongoing research efforts that may one day lead to new, effective treatments for lung cancer.
In honor of World Lung Cancer Day, we would like to share and highlight the benefits of home care and hospice services for patients living with lung cancer.
World Lung Cancer Day occurs every year on August 1. Since its inception in 2012, healthcare providers around the globe have devoted their time on August 1 to sharing important facts and statistics about lung cancer, and to encouraging people to receive early screening for this disease.
There are several steps you can take as a medical professional to raise awareness surrounding World Lung Cancer Day.
Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer, as nearly nine in 10 lung cancer cases are caused by smoking cigarettes. If your patients smoke, tell them about the many effective treatments for smoking cessation, such as medications and nicotine replacement. Other lung cancer risk factors are exposure to radon and secondhand smoke.
Patients at high risk for lung cancer can now undergo a low-dose CT scan that can detect early disease. High-risk patients for lung cancer are between 50 to 80 years old, have a 20-pack-year history of smoking (the equivalent of smoking one pack/day for 20 years), are current smokers, or have quit smoking at some point within the last 15 years. Tell any patients who meet these risk factors about the importance of lung cancer screening and encourage them to make an appointment.
The American Lung Association recommends personally contacting your elected officials in Congress and asking them to support additional lung cancer-related research. Government-funded medical studies can pave the way for future cures and treatments for lung cancer that can potentially save thousands of lives per year.
Another important step you can take to promote World Lung Cancer Day is to refer qualifying lung cancer patients to home health and hospice care.
Lung cancer patients in recovery or remission may benefit greatly from home health services. Home health can help patients live more comfortably with their condition while receiving quality care in the privacy of their own homes. Home health can significantly improve the quality of life of patients who are living with lung cancer.
Patients with terminal lung cancer may benefit from hospice care services that focus on reducing symptoms of end-stage lung cancer. Hospice care allows patients to spend more quality time with their loved ones and make final arrangements as desired.
We understand how overwhelming it can be for patients to navigate and choose a quality home health and hospice care provider. As a healthcare professional, you can ease this burden by referring your patients to our team and guiding them through their transition of care.
Contact us today to speak with one of our representatives to learn more about our many services.
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/statistics/index.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/lungcancer/index.htm
https://www.lung.org/lung-force/about-lung-force/featured-campaigns/world-lung-cancer-day
Springhill Home Health & Hospice is an established, full-service Alabama home health and hospice agency that provides a superior quality of services in a caring manner.