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Programs JEVS Care at Home About Support JEVS

Author: Rossella Alla

Spring Fling Recap: Bingo, Food, and Community Spirit

Posted on by Rossella Alla

This year’s Spring Fling was full of smiles, tasty food, and bingo. The event was all about bringing people together and building a strong community. Program members, staff, and volunteers all joined in. One attendee said, “We do this because it makes a real difference in people’s lives.” It was great to see our volunteers helping and spending time with everyone. They made the day feel even more special. We are thankful for the kindness and energy they bring.

Home Care and Residential Services

JEVS offers a wide range of services for individuals with disabilities or behavioral health needs. These services include programs that provide support in the home, on the job, and in the community.
To learn more about the community supports and residential services, click here.
Whether it’s building life skills, supporting job goals, or encouraging community involvement, JEVS’ helps individuals thrive.

Contact Us to Learn More or Enroll:
9350 Ashton Road, Suite 201, Philadelphia, PA 19114
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4 pm
267.350.8600
[email protected]

Community Resource Fair Brings Help and Hope to the Neighborhood

Posted on by Rossella Alla

The neighborhood came together for an inspiring event, The Community Resource Fair, hosted by JEVS Work Ready and organized by Resource Coordinators Nicole Q. and Markia W. The goal was clear, to connect residents with vital services that support personal, financial, and community well-being. 

A wide variety of organizations participated, offering information and hands-on support in areas like employment, healthcare, legal aid, financial literacy, food access, and more. The event was free and open to everyone from children to adults, and seniors.  It was a day of unity and support, showing how meaningful change can happen when resources and compassion meet. 

Here are some of the incredible organizations that made the day a success: 

  • Dress for Success Greater Philadelphia
    Empowering women to achieve economic independence by providing professional attire, job readiness coaching, and a network of support.
    greaterphiladelphia.dressforsuccess.org 
  • Citizens Bank
    Offered financial education and budgeting tips to help attendees build better financial futures.
    citizensbank.com 
  • Cure Violence Kensington (NKCDC)
    A public health approach to violence prevention, Cure Violence works through community-based outreach to interrupt and mediate potentially violent conflicts.
    nkcdc.org/health-wellness/cureviolence 
  • JEVS Care at Home
    Provides personal care services for older adults and people with disabilities to live independently and comfortably at home.
    jevsathome.org 
  • Homeless Advocacy Project (HAP)
    Offers free legal assistance to individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Philadelphia.
    haplegal.org 
  • PA CareerLink® Philadelphia
    Helps job seekers with resume building, job training, and access to open positions across the city.
    pacareerlinkphl.org 
  • StandUp Wireless
    Provides free or low-cost phone service for eligible individuals through the federal Lifeline program.
    standupwireless.com 
  • Care Access
    Connects people to clinical research opportunities and provides health screenings to advance medical breakthroughs.
    careaccess.com 
  • Philabundance
    The Delaware Valley’s largest hunger relief organization, working to end hunger by distributing food to those in need.
    philabundance.org 

Work Ready provides personalized employment services to individuals receiving TANF and SNAP benefits, helping them overcome barriers to self-sufficiency. Through personalized support, job training, and help with life challenges like internet access and family resources, the program guides participants toward stable employment and greater independence. 

Starting a New Chapter: A JEVS Center for New Americans Story

Posted on by Rossella Alla

Elizabeth L. is a strong and determined woman who started a new chapter in her life in the United States. With her daughter, Elizabeth moved to a new country to build a better future for herself and her family. 

When she arrived in the U.S., she joined the Refugee Assistance Program (RAP) to get support finding a job and learning English. At first, learning a new language was hard, but Elizabeth never gave up. She speaks Haitian Creole and French, and she practiced her English every day by going to classes and studying on her own. 

Her efforts paid off in when she was hired for a new job. She was very excited and worked with energy and care. After three months on the job, Elizabeth felt more confident and proud of what she had accomplished. 

She also finished the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, where she learned important skills to help her in her new life. With better English and job experience, Elizabeth began looking into ways to continue her old career in caregiving. 

Elizabeth continues to reach her goals, and her story is inspiring. She shows that with hard work, support, and a positive attitude, anything is possible. She is excited about her future and hopes to help others along the way. 

Success Story: Luis A. R. L.

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By: Gaspard Marcellus, Job Counselor 

We are honored to share the inspiring journey of Luis A. R. L., who came to the United States with his wife and children as refugees, seeking safety and a better future.

Luis was referred to the Center of New Americans (CNA) by the Philadelphia County Assistance Office to participate in our employment program. He joined in early 2024 and began preparing for the job market. 

Since Luis did not speak English at the time, we connected him with our ESL instructor manager for English and computer training. A few weeks later, with the support of a Spanish-speaking case manager, we helped Luis create a resume that highlighted his professional skills and experience.  

We supported him through the job application process at Philadelphia Airport (Market Place). One of our team members served as both interpreter and job coach during his interview and training. 

Luis was hired full-time for a position in his field, with great benefits and opportunities for growth. He has expressed deep gratitude for the guidance and care he received from our team. His story is a true reflection of the mission we live every day- supporting new Americans on their path to stability, confidence, and success.  

Doctor’s Visits: A Checklist for Caregivers

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H.

When you visit your primary care doctor, how long do you expect your appointment to last? Don’t factor any time you might spend in the waiting room. Estimate only the time you spend in the examination room with your doctor.  

According to a 2023 study published in JAMA Health Forum, patients spend an average of 15 to 18 minutes with their doctor per appointment. The doctor uses some of those minutes to perform an exam based on the reason for the visit, and a few more writing notes or completing other tasks.  

The bottom line is that a doctor’s visit can be over before you know it, and patients may not have enough time to ask questions or accomplish everything they set out to in scheduling their appointment.  

But there is a way to optimize every doctor’s appointment–by planning ahead. This is especially important if you are the caregiver of a loved one or client and one of your responsibilities is to accompany and assist them with their medical appointments.  

When should you take someone to see the doctor? 

  • Annual check-ups and regularly scheduled appointments 
  • Changes in health, bodily functions, or behavior 
  • Injuries or sudden illness 

How can caregivers prepare for their client or loved one’s doctor’s appointment?   

First, track the person’s symptoms as you provide care. Note any recent physical or mental changes, including new complaints about pain(s), changes in mood, mobility and functioning, along with any increase or decrease in weight. Next, schedule the appointment for a time of day when the person you care for is most likely to be alert and energetic. A few days before the appointment, sit down with the person and write out a list of questions.  

Make sure you bring everything that you need for the appointment 

If you bring all of the items in the list below, you will be well prepared for a doctor’s visit:  

  • Insurance cards 
  • Current medication list 
  • A list of all doctors that the patient sees 
  • Medical history (for new doctors) 
  • Calendar/Planner to schedule and record follow up visits (add future appointments to the calendar on your phone if that’s convenient) 

Download a printable checklist you can use for your next doctor’s appointment.

If the person you are caring for is a new client, talk to them about your role and ask them about any specific wishes or preferences they may have for their appointment, for example, if they’d like to spend some time alone with the doctor. Note that in some cases you may need to attend the patient for the whole appointment, for example, if the patient has dementia or poses a fall risk). 

If the person has difficulty understanding or remembering: 

  • Ask the doctor to clarify anything that is confusing 
  • Ask about side effects for new medications/changes in medications 
  • Ask what to do if there are complications 

After the Appointment: 

Review any notes you take and discuss the visit with your loved one/client. Make sure you have added any follow-up appointments to your calendar. Call the pharmacy and order any prescriptions or arrange for pick-up or delivery of any prescriptions the doctor may have phoned in or submitted electronically. Call the doctor’s office to get any test results and relay any additional questions you or the person have. 

There are multiple factors that impact the amount of time doctors can spend with any one patient, so it’s important to make the best use of the time you have in the examining room.  Following these simple guidelines will go a long way towards ensuring a successful visit each time you visit the doctor. 

JEVS Care at Home helps seniors and adults with disabilities lead full and independent lives 

Contact us today for more information about our award-winning home care services: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/  

DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST

Genesis’ Story: Finding Joy and Peace of Mind as a Family Caregiver

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H.

Genesis is one of our newest Family Caregivers here at JEVS Care at Home (JCAH). She shared with us recently about her decision to become a Family Caregiver, the joy she derives from being able to provide the support her mother needs, and why she chose to work with JEVS Care at Home after considering other providers.

1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

Hello! My name is Genesis, and I’m my mom’s Family Caregiver through JEVS Care at Home. Since I was young, I’ve always gravitated toward the medical field. It brings me joy to help people. I also have a creative side. I’m an aspiring esthetician, and I hope to go to school soon to become licensed. It’s never too late to start a new journey!

2) How are you supporting your mother?

My mom was diagnosed with a new illness in November of last year. She was hospitalized multiple times within a few months, and this made it very complicated for her to manage several other health conditions she has been dealing with. I decided to quit my job and fully focus on her care, to make sure she received the care and support she needs. I applied through the PA Medicaid waiver program to be her full-time caregiver, I and was able to move into this role after the new year.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to care for her through JEVS Care at Home. We have established a daily regimen, and this gives her a sense of routine. I take her vitals, help her manage medications, prepare her meals, help her with showers and hygiene. I assist her with whatever she needs.  It’s a peace of mind that is invaluable to us both. 

3) How has becoming a family caregiver made a positive impact on your own life? 

It all started when I was a young child. My father was very ill while I was growing up. When I was in high school, I became his caregiver. At this point he was wheelchair bound. He passed away in 2019 at age 71. In a bittersweet sense, as I grieved, it brought me solace knowing that I did everything in my power to make his quality of life the best I could.

Becoming a family caregiver at an early age made me deeply empathize with everyone around me. I feel so much compassion for those in need, or anyone who is going through a hard time. Caregiving is a job that has to be done with love–the same love that my parents gave me. That has given me the strength to care for them. 

4) What made you decide to work with JEVS Care at Home rather than another provider?

I was initially looking around at different agencies trying to pick the right one for me and my mother’s case. I called a couple of agencies, but no one really stood out to us until we called JEVS Care at Home. I remember speaking to Ruth as my first impression of the agency, and she was so knowledgeable, kind and supportive.

She took her time explaining things and made sure I knew that I could always reach out to her for anything. Every single person that I’ve been in contact with since that first call has maintained that same exact level of professionalism, enthusiasm, and care. I will always recommend JEVS Care at Home! 

5) What advice would you have for others who are thinking about becoming a family caregiver? 

If I could redo life and take care of my father and mom again, I’d do it again and again. Sure, being a caregiver can come with a lot of responsibility, at times even many hardships, but there’s something priceless about being selfless and giving your family that extra support in a time of need in their lives. It’s so rewarding to give back to them and form a deeper bond through this caregiving journey!

I’m very blessed to be able to do this for my dad first and now my mom. It’s equally important to give yourself time to recalibrate, even if it’s just a couple hours of hours at the library, going for a walk at the park, or even going for some coffee with a friend. To care for someone else, you must always care for yourself first! 

6) Is there anything else you would like to share?

I would just like to say that I’m so honored and grateful to have this opportunity to care for my mom, while being able to financially support myself. Caring for someone is indeed a full-time job. My mom is happy that I’m able to be here with her each day as she makes progress with her health, and that to me means more than anything. So, thank you to every person that has helped facilitate my journey in getting started with JEVS Care at Home, you are all amazing!

Winter Skincare Tips

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H. and Nurse Kim

Winter Skincare Tips 

When the weather changes, your skincare routine should change along with it. Winter’s colder temperatures and lower humidity can make it difficult for our skin to retain moisture. This can lead to dry, itchy skin and chapped lips. [SOURCE: https://www.aad.org/news/cold-weather-and-your-skin] 

Begin protecting your skin against the cold by following this important rule: whenever you go outside, expose as little skin as possible. Wear gloves, hats, scarves, and earmuffs. They not only keep you warm, but they also minimize the effect of cold, dry air on your skin.  

Next, follow a skincare regimen designed for winter:  

  • Avoid showering or bathing in water that is too hot. Hot water removes natural oils from the skin, and the more oils removed, the drier the skin becomes. Showering in scalding temperatures tends to dry out your skin even more.
  • Use soaps with moisturizer 
  • Exfoliate using a gentle brush 
  • Moisturize after bathing while skin is moist 
  • Choose moisturizers with: ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lanolin, mineral oil, and petroleum jelly.  
  • Use Vaseline/Aquaphor; these products create a barrier to prevent water loss from the skin. They can help keep skin hydrated, especially in dry environments or for people with very dry skin. 
  • Keep lotion & lip balm handy 
  • Brush your lips with a toothbrush to get rid of any excess skin. 

The American Academy of Dermatology cautions that cold weather also affects the humidity inside our homes. Turning up the heat or lighting a fireplace can reduce the moisture in the air even more. Instead, keep your thermostat a bit lower and bundle up in layers. Also, use a humidifier to add moisture back to the air. This will offer additional protection against dry skin. [SOURCE: https://www.aad.org/news/cold-weather-and-your-skin] 

Finally, stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water. Drinking water helps to replenish the skin’s natural moisture and further reduces the effects of colder, dryer air. 

 

JEVS Care at Home helps seniors and adults with disabilities live full, independent lives at home.  

For more about our services, including no-cost options for eligible veterans and Medicaid participants, contact us today. [Link “today” to https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/ ] 

Congratulations to the JEVS Work Ready Graduates! 

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By JEVS Staff

Since 2021, JEVS Human Services’ Work Ready program has helped more than 130 individuals gain high school diplomas through its partnership with Penn Foster.

For the first time in the history of the program, JEVS Work Ready hosted the graduation ceremony at the National Constitution Center. The location set an inspiring tone for celebrating graduates who overcame challenges to receive diplomas and build better opportunities for their families.

In her welcoming remarks, JEVS President and CEO, Cynthia Figueroa celebrated the graduates for not giving up. “This diploma is a testament to your strength, resilience, and commitment to building a better future,” she said. “Let it remind you of what you can do when you commit to a goal and push through obstacles.”

Many of the 35 graduating students shared how getting their high school diplomas empowered them to overcome the stigma of not completing school. They shared how the support of JEVS Work Ready Program—especially from Instructor Ms. Alberta—changed their lives.

Class Valedictorian Nichelle Lee praised Ms. Alberta, saying, “She pours her heart, love, and care into [her] students.” Lee congratulated her classmates and expressed gratitude to them, her family, and the JEVS team. Earning her diploma, she said, strengthened her resilience and self-belief. “This moment is about our passion and perseverance,” Lee said.

Ms. Alberta acknowledged the challenges many students faced. “For some of you, the decision to leave school was made for reasons beyond your control. But I am here to tell you that today is a new beginning.” She reminded them of their accomplishments, what their diplomas mean for their futures, and how JEVS will continue to support them moving forward.

JEVS’ Work Ready Director of Education Services Mark Webb gave closing remarks. “You have worked so hard, both individually and collectively, and overcome so much to earn that diploma.”

Graduates will now have the opportunity to continue their education and job training through healthcare programs at Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services.

Individuals who are interested in JEVS’ Work Ready program can learn more by clicking this link.

Glaucoma: 10 Key Facts Seniors & Caregivers Need to Know

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H. and Nurse Kim 

Glaucoma: 10 Key Facts Seniors & Caregivers Need to Know 

As we recognize January as Glaucoma Awareness Month, here are 10 things seniors and their caregivers need to know about this disease that effects an estimated 3 million Americans: 

1. A disease of the eye:

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain. Glaucoma is often linked to high pressure inside the eye, although people with normal eye pressure can get a version of the disease. 

2. Silent symptoms:

Glaucoma usually has no early symptoms. You won’t feel pain or notice vision changes until the damage is serious. 

3. It affects peripheral vision first:

Glaucoma often starts by affecting side (peripheral) vision. Many people don’t notice the loss because it happens slowly. 

4. Vision loss is permanent:

Once glaucoma damages your vision, it can’t be restored. This makes early detection crucial. 

5. Some people are at higher risk:

Glaucoma affects people of all ages, but your risk is elevated if you are 60 and older, especially if you are Latino/Hispanic. African Americans over the age of 40, people with a family history of glaucoma, and those with high eye pressure, diabetes, or severe nearsightedness also are at higher risk. [SOURCE: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma] 

6. Regular eye exams are essential:

The National Eye Institute (NEI) recommends that everyone over 60 get a comprehensive eye exam every year, even if their vision seems fine. An eye doctor can check for early signs of glaucoma. [SOURCE: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma]  

7. Glaucoma is manageable:

While there’s no cure, treatments like eye drops, laser therapy, and surgery can help lower eye pressure and prevent further damage. 

8. Eye drops must be taken as directed:

If prescribed, glaucoma eye drops must be used exactly as directed. Missing doses can allow eye pressure to rise and cause damage. [SOURCE: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/glaucoma-eyedrop-medicine] 

9. Exercise may help lower risk:

Regular, moderate exercise, like walking, can help lower eye pressure. Avoid exercises that strain the eyes, like heavy weightlifting. [SOURCE: https://glaucoma.org/articles/sports-exercise-and-glaucoma-safe-practices-and-recommendations ] 

10. Signs of advanced glaucoma:

Severe glaucoma may cause blurred vision, halos around lights, eye pain, or headaches. If you notice these symptoms, see an eye doctor immediately. 

Caregivers can play a vital role in helping seniors manage glaucoma by ensuring they attend eye exams, take prescribed medications, and follow their doctor’s advice. Remember: early action can save sight! 

 

JEVS Care at Home Can Help 

For more information about our services for seniors and adults with disabilities, contact us today at https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/  

Handwashing: Your Essential Guide to Stopping Germs and Illness

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Nurse Kim and Thomas H.

Handwashing: Essential Protection Against the Spread of Germs, Illness 

Keeping our hands clean is one of the most important things we can do to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. [SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html ] 

This is because many diseases and conditions can be spread by dirty hands. [SOURCE: https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Health-Details.aspx?newsid=691] This includes common illnesses, like colds, and more serious diseases, like meningitis. The CDC estimates that handwashing can prevent about 20 percent of respiratory infections and 30 percent of diarrhea-related sicknesses. [SOURCE: https://www.media.pa.gov/pages/health-details.aspx?newsid=1174 ] 

When to Wash Your Hands 

Knowing when to wash your hands is an important first step. Click HERE for a caregiver video tip. 

“Germs like salmonella, E.coli, and norovirus can get on our hands after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, or touching raw meat,” says the Pennsylvania Dept. of Health. If we don’t wash off these germs, we can pass them on to other people, who can become ill. [SOURCE: https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Health-Details.aspx?newsid=691] 

Washing your hands throughout the day and before and after completing certain tasks will give you and those around you the best protection against germs and illness. 

Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly…: 

  • Before, during, and after preparing food 
  • Before eating food 
  • Before and after caring for someone who is sick 
  • Before and after treating a cut or wound 
  • After using the toilet 
  • After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet 
  • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing 
  • After touching an animal 
  • After handling pet food or pet treats 
  • After touching garbage 

[SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html ] 

Washing your hands the right way: 

To get the maximum benefit from handwashing it’s very important to wash your hands the right way. Follow these steps from the CDC: 

  1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap. 
  2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. 
  3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Evidence shows that washing your hands for this long gets rid of more germs.  
  4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.  
  5. Dry your hands as thoroughly as possible.

If soap and water aren’t available, you can wash your hands with hand sanitizer. Chose a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. As with soap and water, make sure to get the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Rub your hands together until they are completely dry.  

[SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html] 

JEVS Care at Home Can Help 

Our caregivers empower seniors and adults with disabilities to live fully and independently at home by assisting with personal care and everyday tasks. For more information, contact us today [LINK to https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/ ] 

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