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Arthritis: What Older Adults Need to Know

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

When someone says they have “arthritis” they may have one of more than 100 diseases that affect the joints. These diseases include osteoarthritis (also called degenerative arthritis), rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, and gout. All these diseases cause joint pain and stiffness. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), arthritis is the leading cause of disability. In the U.S., 53.2 million people (21.2 % of adults) have arthritis, which occurs more frequently as people age. Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Arthritis) is the most common form of the disease.

Arthritis symptoms like pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion may come and go. They can be mild, moderate, or severe. They may stay about the same for years but may get worse over time. Severe arthritis can lead to chronic pain. People who have arthritis may have trouble walking, climbing stairs, or doing essential daily tasks. Arthritis can cause permanent joint changes. Some types of arthritis also affect the heart, eyes, lungs, kidneys, and skin as well as the joints.

How is Arthritis Diagnosed?

To diagnose arthritis, doctors typically use a combination of methods:

  • Medical History: Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms. They will ask when your symptoms started and how they affect your daily life. Your doctor will also want to know about any family history of arthritis.
  • Physical Examination: Your doctor will check your joints for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. This will help your doctor learn which joints are affected and how bad your symptoms are.
  • Imaging Tests: Your doctor may order imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound. These can help your doctor to see signs of arthritis, such as joint damage or inflammation.
  • Blood Tests: In some cases, blood tests may be helpful. These can rule out other conditions. They can also reveal certain antibodies and other markers of arthritis.
  • Other Diagnostic Tests: Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend other tests. For example, your doctor may want to take a sample of fluid from a joint that is causing you pain.

Your doctor will use your medical history, exam, and tests to diagnose arthritis and create a tailored treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and enhance your well-being

When the joint symptoms of arthritis are mild or moderate, they can be managed by:

  • balancing activity with rest
  • using hot and cold therapies
  • maintaining a healthy weight
  • using assistive devices
  • taking over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines

To combat pain and stiffness, increase routine physical activity. According to the Mayo Clinic, “low impact” exercises like walking and stretching are best. These can “decrease your pain and stiffness, improve your range of motion, strengthen your muscles, and increase your endurance.” Mayo recommends avoiding any exercise that requires jumping or repeating the same motion. You want to avoid putting unwanted stress on joints.

JEVS Care at Home can Help 

Arthritis can make daily activities like laundry, cooking, and dressing difficult. This is especially true for people with severe symptoms. A home health aide from JEVS Care at Home can help. Our aides support clients with daily tasks that are difficult due to arthritis pain. This enables our clients to live fully and independently at home. Contact us today for more information on our award-winning services.

Get to Know JEVS Care at Home (JCAH)

Posted on by Erin Giberson

Are you familiar with JEVS Care at Home (JCAH)? You may have seen our blogs or social posts, but we’re taking this opportunity to share about who we are and what we do. 

JEVS Care at Home provides non-medical home care to seniors and adults with disabilities. ”Non-medical” care includes help with personal care (grooming, bathing, dressing), and “activities of daily living,” including light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, and other essential tasks. JCAH caregivers also provide help with transitions from hospital to home, companionship, and other services.

As an affiliate program of JHS, we are aligned with the organization’s mission to work with individuals to create paths to independence and economic security.

The JCAH Difference 

In addition to our not-for-profit and award-winning status, we differ from other home care providers in several important ways. 

JCAH works with a broad range of clients.

While some providers only work with clients who pay for services out of their own resources, we work with the broadest possible range of clients, including eligible Veterans and qualified Medicaid recipients, who can receive services at no cost.

We support clients through the application process.

Our Community Engagement Specialists, Mason Wallack, Rachel Fein, and Tim Lawson, are experts in helping clients with low income or selected disabilities navigate Pennsylvania’s application process for “waiver program” services.

We have fun!

Mason, Rachel, and Tim also support the community by partnering with senior centers and other community organizations to provide educational and entertainment programming. For instance, Mason, who’s also a talented musician, hosted a “Piano and Pizza” event at Scottish Rite Senior Apartments in Center City, and Tim gave a talk on “Black Leaders in Health Care” at The Firehouse Senior Center in West Philadelphia. 

Resources and Contacts

JCAH has an in-house nursing team who train our caregivers and oversee the design of personalized care plans for each of our clients. Look for regular health and wellness tips from JCAH’s Nurse Kim St. Peter in JEVS blogs. .

And please follow us on Facebook and Instagram, where you can get updates and learn more about our team members.

For additional information about JCAH, contact Communications Manager Tom Hartmann.

Home Care for Veterans: Discover Benefits and How to Apply

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

Home care can be a solution for Veterans who need additional support to live independently at home. For many veterans, home care is available free of charge. Veterans can apply to receive home care benefits through the Veterans Administration’s Homemaker and Home Health Aide program.

What is Home Care?

Home care refers to non-medical help with personal care and everyday tasks, also known as “activities of daily living” or ADLs. ADLs include dressing, grooming, food preparation and cooking, and light housekeeping.

Home care is provided in the home by Home Health Aides or Caregivers. It plays a vital role for many people who are aging, ill, or disabled. Home care enables them to keep living at home rather than moving to a nursing or assisted living facility.

What are Home Health Aides?

Home Health Aides are trained professionals who assist with personal care and daily activities. While they’re not nurses and don’t provide medication or therapy, they support clients in living independently. At JEVS Care at Home, all caregivers complete a rigorous training program conducted by our in-house nursing team. Caregivers must pass a skills assessment test to demonstrate that they are ready to work with clients. All JCAH caregivers also pass a thorough background check.

What is the Homemaker and Home Health Aide program?

The VA’s Homemaker and Home Health Aide program is for Veterans of any age who need personal care services, including home care. The program is also for Veterans who are isolated, or whose caregivers need a break or “respite” from providing care. According to the VA website, services are available to Veteran’s who are already enrolled in the VA’s Healthcare Benefits Program. Home care and other services are provided based on a needs assessment. The VA encourages Veterans to speak with a VA social worker to explore services they may be able to receive

How do I apply for Home Care Services?

For information about applying for home care services under the VA Homemaker and Home Health Aide program, contact the VA at 800-698-2411. To learn how to enroll in VA health care benefits, click here to learn how to apply. 

JEVS Care at Home has a long history of assisting Veterans, with highly experienced staff dedicated to guiding them through home care options and available benefits. If you are a veteran residing in Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley, Gettysburg, or Pittsburgh, contact us today to explore available services!

 

What Every Caregiver Should Know About Parkinson’s Disease 

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Approximately one million people in the US have Parkinson’s, with 50,000 new cases each year. Men are twice as likely to get Parkinson’s. The average age of someone diagnosed with the disease is 56.

Parkinson’s is a brain disorder

It causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Parkinson’s is usually diagnosed only when symptoms appear.

There’s no known cause, and no cure 

We don’t know what causes Parkinson’s disease, although a family history of the disease increases risk. There is also no cure. However, there are medications that can help patients with the symptoms. Patients can also undergo deep brain stimulation. This is when doctors use electric current treatment to help block tremors and manage movement symptoms of the disease.

Here are 10 tips every caregiver should know to best support someone experiencing Parkinson’s disease:

1. Be organized

Keep all your loved one’s records in a folder you can access. These records might include medical notes, insurance papers, records, appointments, telephone numbers of clinics and doctors, and medication details. Take this folder with you to all appointments so you always have everything on hand.

2. Look after yourself

To be able to look after your loved one, you need to be physically and emotionally well. Take time off — it’s important to unwind and de-stress. Ask family members and friends to help or hire professional care. Spend some time doing something you enjoy and take your mind off things for a few hours.

3. Join a support group

Find out if there are any active support groups in your local area. If not, look online for a support group for caregivers of Parkinson’s disease patients. This will give you both practical and emotional support, and you will be able to ask advice and share your experience with others who are going through the same thing.

4. Educate yourself about Parkinson’s disease

Learn about the condition and symptoms. Talk to your loved one’s doctor about what to expect with the progression of the disease.

5. Expect changes in your relationship 

Mood swings and depression are common in Parkinson’s disease and your loved one may even become resentful. It is difficult to deal with these changes in the relationship, so open and honest communication is critical. You will both need time to adjust to your new roles in the relationship.

6. Observe symptoms

As your loved one’s caregiver, you will be the first person to notice any changes in behavior or worsening of symptoms. Report these to your loved one’s doctors as they occur so they can be addressed as soon as possible.

7. Report changes

If you spot any changes, let your loved one’s doctors know right away. They need this info to tweak treatment plans or address new issues quickly. Your quick reporting helps keep your loved one’s health on track.

8. Encourage independence

Try to let your loved one maintain routines that are doable. They will want to hold onto their independence for as long as possible. Ask if they need help and respect their answer.

9. Know your rights

Familiarize yourself with both caregivers’ rights and disability rights. Find out if you are entitled to any disability or caretaker benefits.

10. Talk about the future

Although this is a difficult topic to broach, it’s important that you understand what your loved one wants further down the line. You need to discuss wills, treatment options, and end-of-life decisions.

Find resources and get support

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease is challenging, but you aren’t alone. JEVS Care at Home (JCAH) supports clients with Parkinson’s disease and their families. We provide award-winning home care that helps clients live full and independent lives. Contact us today for more information about our services or how you can become a paid family caregiver.

Essential Kitchen Safety Tips for Dementia Care at Home 

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

Caring for a loved one with dementia at home requires awareness and patience. One area that needs special attention is the kitchen, where potential hazards can pose risks to their safety. By implementing simple precautions and strategies, caregivers can create a safer environment while maintaining their loved one’s independence. Here are some essential kitchen safety tips for caregivers of individuals with dementia.

Clear Clutter and Maintain Order

Keep countertops and surfaces clear of unnecessary items to minimize distractions and confusion. Clutter can overwhelm individuals with dementia and increase the risk of accidents. Organize cabinets and drawers neatly, placing commonly used items within easy reach. This simple step can enhance kitchen safety and promote a sense of familiarity.

Label and Color-Code

Labeling drawers, cabinets, and containers can help individuals with dementia identify items more easily. Use large, clear labels with bold lettering. Additionally, consider implementing a color-coding system for different types of items (e.g., red for cooking utensils, blue for cleaning supplies). Consistency in labeling and color-coding can reduce confusion and promote independence in the kitchen.

Install Safety Devices

Equip the kitchen with safety devices to prevent accidents and injuries. Install stove knob covers to make sure burners aren’t turned on accidentally. Automatic shut-off devices for stoves and ovens will minimize the risk of fire. Place non-slip mats near sinks and work areas to prevent slips and falls. These simple additions can provide an extra layer of protection for individuals with dementia.

Supervise and Simplify Tasks

Supervision is crucial when individuals with dementia are in the kitchen. Encourage them to engage in simple tasks, such as setting the table or stirring ingredients., Be sure to also provide guidance and assistance as needed. Break down tasks into manageable steps and avoid overwhelming them with complex instructions. By supervising and simplifying tasks, you can promote a sense of accomplishment while ensuring their safety.

Create a Safe Cooking Environment

When cooking with individuals with dementia, prioritize safety at every step. Use appliance timers to remind them when food is ready or when it’s time to turn off the stove. Choose simple recipes with fewer preparation steps to reduce the risk of confusion. Avoid leaving cooking unattended and always supervise the use of kitchen appliances. By creating a safe cooking environment, you can minimize potential risks and enhance their kitchen experience.

Adding these kitchen safety tips to your caregiving routine can help protect individuals with dementia from accidents and promote their independence in the kitchen. Remember to maintain a supportive and patient attitude while assisting them with daily tasks. By prioritizing safety and implementing practical strategies, you can create a nurturing environment where your loved one can thrive.

The Spring Cleaning Guide for Seniors

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H and Nurse Kim

Spring is here! As flowers bloom and days grow longer, many of us set aside a day or two for spring cleaning. But what does it look like for seniors?

When you think of Spring Cleaning you may think of washing windows, putting away cold-weather clothes, and airing out rooms. But Spring cleaning isn’t just about dusting and scrubbing and polishing. It’s a time-honored ritual that is important for seniors. Spring cleaning is an opportunity for seniors to freshen their homes, but it is also a time to check that essential systems in the home are working properly. Doing these tasks improves their overall health and wellness. Read on to explore why spring cleaning matters for seniors:

Promotes Physical Activity

Many seniors are more sedentary during the colder months. This can lead to stiffness and decreased mobility. Spring cleaning is an opportunity to get moving, stretch muscles, and engage in physical activity, which is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Reduces Allergens

As we age, our immune systems may weaken, making us more susceptible to allergens and airborne irritants. Deep cleaning tasks like dusting, vacuuming, and washing linens can significantly reduce allergens in the home and help protect seniors against respiratory illnesses.

Enhances Safety

Clutter and disorganization can be a major safety hazard for seniors. Clutter increases the risk of trips, falls, and other accidents. By decluttering and organizing their living spaces, seniors can create a safer environment that reduces the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Boosts Mental Health

An untidy or cluttered home can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. Spring cleaning can give seniors a sense of accomplishment and control over their environment. This can have a positive impact on mental health and overall well-being.

Prepares for the Future

Regular spring cleaning allows seniors to assess the condition of their homes and address any maintenance or repair needs promptly. By performing an annual check of important systems and appliances, seniors can identify problems before things break, avoiding larger, more expensive issues down the road. Making this check a part of spring cleaning helps seniors maintain a safe and comfortable living environment.

To support seniors, JEVS Care at Home (JCAH) has a dedicated team of caregivers, such as Nurse Kim. Here is her checklist to follow as you spring clean:

  1. Check your medicine cabinet. Remove all expired medications and prescriptions and ones you no longer use.
  2. Check your refrigerator and pantry. Get rid of all food that is expired.
  3. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace all batteries.
  4. Check your fire extinguishers and make sure they read “full”. (Every home should have at least two extinguishers.)
  5. Replace air filters if you have central air/heat.
  6. Replace all broken light bulbs.
  7. Check area rugs for any tripping hazard.
  8. Watch out for electrical cords or phone cords that could be tripping hazards.
  9. Consider installing grab bars in the bathtub, shower, and near the toilet.
  10. Review your emergency plan

If you don’t already have an Emergency Kit, spring cleaning is a perfect time to put one together. Once you’ve assembled your emergency kit, check it in Winter and Spring and replace any items that you have used or that have expired.

Be sure that your emergency kit has these recommended items:

  1. Flashlight and spare batteries
  2. Thermometer
  3. Band-Aids
  4. Scissors
  5. Tape
  6. Triple antibiotic ointment
  7. Wound care dressings
  8. Protein bars/Granola Bar
  9. Current medication list
  10. Emergency contact list that includes the names and phone numbers of family and friends.
Put Safety First

Nurse Kim emphasizes that safety should always come first. If a task feels overwhelming, seek help! Remember these three things before you start your spring cleaning and whenever you are performing tasks around the house:

  1. Never try to move furniture or heavy objects on your own.
  2. Don’t stand on a chair or ladder to clean hard to reach spots or change light bulbs.
  3. Use cordless cleaning tools and lightweight equipment

Remember, JEVS Care at home (JCAH) can help! Our caregivers can assist with many of the tasks you need to complete to keep your home tidy, comfortable, and safe. Our services are available at no cost to qualified Medicaid recipients and eligible veterans. We also work with many long-term insurance plans, and we offer affordable rates for those who must use their own resources to pay for services. Contact us today for more information.

5 Fruits and Vegetables for Senior Diets   

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

Eating a healthy diet becomes more important as we get older. Fruits and vegetables are vital to getting the vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants we need. Yet not all foods offer the same nutritional benefits. Here are five top picks for seniors. 

Spinach

Spinach deserves a place in the diet of seniors. It is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and calcium. Spinach supports bone health, immune function, and cardiovascular health. Additionally, its high fiber content aids with digestion and may help manage blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. 

Blueberries

Blueberries are small but mighty when it comes to nutritional value. They are rich in antioxidants that have been linked to improved brain function and reduced inflammation. Eating blueberries may also help support heart health and maintain healthy blood pressure levels. 

Broccoli

Broccoli has many health benefits and is an excellent addition to a senior’s diet. It is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Eating broccoli also supports immune function and bone health. It may even help reduce the risk of certain cancers, including prostate and colon cancer. Also, broccoli’s high fiber content promotes digestive health and helps regulate cholesterol levels.

Apples

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is a saying with some truth, especially for seniors. Apples are a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion. Fiber also makes us feel “full,” and that can help seniors maintain a healthy weight. Apples contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers.  

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are both delicious and very nutritious. This makes them an ideal choice for seniors looking to support their health. Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, which promotes eye health and immune function. They also have ample amounts of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which support heart health, bone health, and digestive function. The complex carbohydrates in sweet potatoes provide energy without causing spikes in blood sugar levels. 

Spinach, blueberries, broccoli, apples, and sweet potatoes, offer many health benefits for seniors. Just remember that variety is key when it comes to fruits and vegetables. You should aim to cover half of your plate with a colorful assortment of in-season fruits and vegetables to ensure that you are getting a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Also, ask your doctor if you have any health conditions that would prevent you from eating certain foods.  

Find Support

By embracing the power of fruits and vegetables, you can nourish your body and enjoy a higher quality of life as you age gracefully. If you need help with food preparation or cooking, JEVS Care at Home can help. Contact us today for more on how we help seniors and adults with disabilities lead full and independent lives.  

Seniors, Make an Effort to Drink Water. Here’s Why 

Posted on by Erin Giberson

Did you know that we get less thirsty as we age? It’s not that we need fluids less—staying hydrated is essential to good health. We simply don’t feel the sensation of thirst the way we did when we were younger. This is why many seniors get less water than they need. In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, “dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization among those 65 and over.”

So, if you’re a senior, it’s very important to make an effort to drink enough water.

Signs of Dehydration

If you have any of these signs, you may be dehydrated:

  • dry mouth
  • muscle cramps
  • chills
  • headache
  • fatigue
  • dark or strong-smelling urine
  • dizziness or confusion

You can become dehydrated more quickly if you have certain health conditions, like kidney disease, dementia, or diabetes. Also, medications like laxatives and “water pills” (diuretics) can increase your chance of becoming dehydrated.

Benefits of Hydration 

Staying hydrated is essential to keep our bodies healthy and working properly. Drinking water:

  • Helps us digest the foods we eat
  • Supports brain performance
  • Regulates and even stimulates metabolism
  • Stabilizes blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of falls
  • Regulates body temperature, especially when exercising or in hot weather
  • Helps with weight loss by suppressing appetite and preventing fluid retention
  • Maintains skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, scars, and soft lines 

 So how much water do we need? 8 glasses per day is a good goal, says The Mayo Clinic, and some experts recommend between 50 and 67 ounces. That may seem like a lot, but getting enough water each day is actually easier than you think.

Hydration Tips from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):

  • Carry a water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day.
  • Freeze some freezer safe water bottles. Take one with you for ice-cold water all day long.
  • Choose water over sugary drinks.
  • Drink water when eating out. You’ll also save money and reduce calories.
  • Serve water during meals.
  • Add a wedge of lime or lemon to your water. This can help improve the taste.
  • Eating the right foods is also a way to get water. According to the Cleveland Clinic, foods like cucumber, zucchini, and iceberg lettuce are high in water content. Making them part of your diet will help you stay hydrated.

Finally, drink tap water rather than bottled water. Tap water is good water! It is monitored and regulated by The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Safe Drinking Water Act.  The Minnesota Department of Health says that “Tap water and bottled water generally have the same quality standards.” That means it’s difficult to justify the cost of buying bottled water, except in an emergency. Also, plastic water bottles are a big threat to the environment. According to one estimate, as many as 85% of plastic water bottles end up as waste. This is concerning because plastic water bottles take a long time to break down. As they do they release harmful chemicals into the soil and water. A reuseable water bottle will help you do your part to protect the environment.

JEVS Care at Home (JCAH) Can Help 

At JCAH we’re committed to delivering the best home care in the industry. If you or someone you love is finding it challenging to prepare food and cook meals, we can help. Contact us today for information about our services, which are available free to those who qualify.    

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Posted on by Erin Giberson

Practicing good nutrition can be a challenge, especially if you need to watch what you spend. Healthy foods like seafood and other lean proteins can be expensive, and cost is a reason why many people choose fast food or junk food over healthier options. But eating better on a budget is not as difficult as you might think. Plenty of delicious foods are both healthy and inexpensive. And if you change some of your eating and shopping habits, you can save a lot of money to put towards better nutrition. To celebrate National Nutrition Month®, here are some ways to eat better and save money.

Eat Out Less

Eating out is a great way to treat yourself, but doing it often, like ordering takeout or buying ready-made meals, can be expensive. Making the same $15 meal at home is much cheaper. You can even prepare multiple meals for the price of one restaurant dish or store-bought items. Cooking at home not only saves money but also lets you control the amount of salt, fat, and sugar in your food. This is important if you’re watching your weight or have health conditions like high blood pressure.

Websites like Eating Well and The Food Hub from the American Diabetes Association have many healthy recipes that are also simple to prepare.

Plan Ahead

When you go shopping, it can be easy to spend more than planned. The Journal of Consumer Research says that shoppers who don’t use a shopping list spend an average of 23% more than those who do. To save money, plan your weekly meals and snacks before you go shopping. Check your pantry and fridge, then make a list of only what you need for your planned recipes.

Shop Smart

Look for supermarket sales in your local newspaper, online, and in-store circulars. Coupons and special discounts can help you save on expensive items like meat. Also, compare markets in your area and you will probably find one that has better everyday prices on the items you buy. Join your favorite store’s rewards or loyalty program to get special discounts and collect points.

Buy Larger Sizes or “In Bulk”

Buy large sizes of things you use regularly so that each meal you make costs less per serving. Nuts, dried fruits, and other healthy snacks can be purchased in bulk, which makes them much cheaper. Also, prepare double batches of your favorite recipes. Use the additional servings for other meals during the week or freeze them in individual containers to use within 3-4 months.

Drink Water

Water is essential for good health. It aids in digestion, helps us retain nutrients, supports cognitive function and healthy skin, and more. And choosing water over soda or other sweetened beverages will help you save money. Drinking tap water also helps protect the environment. Fill a reusable bottle with tap water and some ice and reach for it whenever you’re thirsty!

Buy In-season Fruits and Vegetables

In-season fresh fruits and veggies usually cost less, so plan meals around what is in-season and easy to find in your local markets. If what you want isn’t in season, look for frozen or canned options, which can also be budget-friendly. “Just be sure to compare the ingredients list and nutrition facts panel to make sure you’re not getting a product with added ingredients,” says The Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Looked for canned fruit that is packed in water or 100% juice. For canned vegetables, look for labels marked “no salt added.”

Choose Store Brands

Most supermarkets carry their own brands of popular items like canned and frozen vegetables, dairy products, and dried pasta, and quality is usually the same as national brands. According to the CDC, buying generic or store brand versions of the foods and ingredients you use regularly can save you 20% to 30% on your grocery bill.

Shop for foods that are in season

In-season fresh fruits and veggies usually cost less, so plan meals around what is in-season and easy to find in your local markets. If what you want isn’t in season, look for frozen or canned options

Look for Low-cost, High-nutrition Foods

Some inexpensive foods are quite nutritious. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, you can stretch your food dollars AND practice good nutrition by cooking recipes with ingredients like “beans, peas, and lentils; sweet or white potatoes; eggs; peanut butter; canned salmon, tuna or crabmeat; [and] grains such as oats, brown rice, barley or quinoa.”

Start Your Own Garden

If you have the space, a garden is an inexpensive way to get the vegetables and fruits that are the backbone of healthy eating. You can find packets of seeds for tomatoes, leafy greens, and more at garden centers, hardware stores and other retailers. Gardening is good exercise, too.

Shop at Farmer’s Markets

If you don’t have a yard or other space for a garden, local farmers markets such as the ones managed by The Food Trust in Philadelphia offer an abundance of veggies and fruits at prices that are often much lower than supermarkets.

These tips are a few ways that you can eat better while saving money. If you or a loved one need help with food preparation or cooking, JEVS Care at Home can help! Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we deliver award-winning care.

Three Ways to Pay for Home Care

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

If you or someone you care about needs care at home, you might be wondering, “how can we pay for it?” Fortunately, it’s easier than it may seem.

Many people qualify to receive home care at no cost, and for others the cost is more affordable than expected. Here are three ways to cover the cost of home care.

Medicaid

The first way to pay for home care services is through Medicaid. Medicaid is the government healthcare insurance program for people with low incomes. Medicaid covers 100% of the cost of home care, so if you are on Medicaid currently, you can begin receiving services at no cost. However, you need to be approved. In Pennsylvania, the first step is to complete the application for home care services. This application is managed by The Pennsylvania Independent Enrollment Broker (PA IEB), also known as Maximus. The Maximus application process can be confusing, but JEVS Care at Home (JCAH) has experts who can answer your questions. Contact JCAH to help you or your loved one start the process.

Long-term care insurance

The second way to pay for home care services is by using long-term care insurance. Some insurance policies cover part or all of home care expenses. Yet these policies can be expensive and may have age restrictions. It’s important to purchase them in advance since they might not be an immediate solution. If you’re approaching retirement and considering future needs, talk with a financial professional who can go over the pros and cons of long-term care insurance.

Private Pay or Private Duty

The third way to pay for home care is from personal funds. You may have concern about the cost, but home care is not as expensive as you may think. You also might need only part-time home care. A few hours of home care each week can do a lot to enhance quality of life and support independence at home. Even if you are on a budget, home care can be affordable, and the benefits can far outweigh the cost. 

Contact us today with any questions you have about paying for home care and the benefits of in-home care from JEVS Care at Home. We’ve been serving clients across Pennsylvania for over 40 years, and we’re here to help! 

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