Kim Gooch – Lifeline Homecare

Thank you Homecare Caregivers

Posted on September 6, 2021 | by Kim Gooch

HCAOA Honors Caregivers This Labor Day

Labor Day has been a nationally celebrated holiday in the United States since 1894, and while industries like manufacturing are traditionally thought of when it comes to “labor,” in the home care industry our caregivers practice a labor of love. This holiday, and every day, the Home Care Association of America (HCAOA) honors frontline home care aides who are the lifelines for so many people particularly throughout the pandemic. “Labor Day is a great opportunity for the home care industry to once again emphasize the valuable service more than 2 million home care aides bring to thousands of older Americans, individuals with disabilities, and children with complex medical conditions every day,” said HCAOA Executive Director Vicki Hoak. “Caregiving is a labor of love that should be respected and honored. We extend a sincere THANK YOU to all professional caregivers who enable Americans to remain in their own homes – living as independently as possible. Our frontline home care workers have undoubtedly saved thousands of lives by keeping the most vulnerable population to the coronavirus safe at home,” added Hoak. Caregivers don’t just go through the motions of their day-to-day jobs. They bring care to individuals in their own homes, helping with daily activities while monitoring their conditions. They form strong relationships and many times become a member of the entire family. The types of bonds home care aides develop with their clients are unlike any other and require an individual with a high degree of compassion, dedication and professionalism. “I cannot think of a job where someone can so directly impact the quality of life of an individual as private duty homecare. It can simultaneously be both the most challenging and the most rewarding work. Caregivers deserve our utmost respect for the work they do every day. Hats off to caregivers on this Labor Day!” said Pattie Rogers, Vice President and Director of Operations, Waverly Care Associates in Pennsylvania. HCAOA member Dave Lamb, General Manager, CareMaster Medical Services in Georgia, said, “Every year America pauses on Labor Day to honor fellow Americans that work every day in all walks of life to support our families, each other, and all Americans. This year, and for the second consecutive year under the strain of COVID-19, America pauses on Labor Day to honor the caregivers and nurses that work so hard every day to allow the elderly and disabled to remain in their homes and communities. Thanks to each of you for your hard work and great care.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.” HCAOA values all direct care workers and hopes to continue to be a resource for all.

Home Care Association of America

Caregiving and Covid

Posted on August 16, 2021 | by Kim Gooch

Approximately 34 million Americans provide unpaid care for aging adult family members each year. Many family caregivers juggle childcare, work and elder caregiving. Covid adds an even greater stress factor to this juggling act.

Those over 65 were most at risk as the Covid pandemic began and certainly remain vulnerable. Vaccines have helped reduce the severity in many cases but there are still several documented breakthrough cases as the virus mutates. In addition, even those who are vaccinated are said to be able to carry and spread the disease. There is still a need for everyone to be cautious.

Now the Delta variant is spreading through the 18 and under age group. Covid vaccines are currently only approved for children 12 and over. As children go back to school, transmission rates are likely to increase among the unvaccinated. As family caregivers juggle childcare, work and eldercare there is often fear and worry about spreading the virus among vulnerable family members. Minimizing gatherings where exposure can happen is recommended.

Lifeline Homecare can help in the fight against Covid and reduce stress for caregivers balancing the needs of different generations. By bringing in homecare caregivers to assist, clients can stay safe and healthy at home. This alleviates stress among family members and the strain on overburdened medical facilities. As hospitals reach capacity and manage health conditions for patients, homecare becomes even more important. Caregivers trained in safety and infection control, may notice hazards in the home or minor changes in client condition and are able to prevent falls or exacerbations of issues. By utilizing homecare services, eveyone gets the care and attention they need without unduly exposing family members to risk…and the best part – caregivers get a much needed break!

*Note: Lifeline caregivers are trained in proper infection control procedures to mitigate the spread of disease, including Covid. Personal protective equipment (ppe) is provided to each caregiver to protect them and their clients.

Memory, Forgetfulness, and Aging: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

Posted on February 5, 2021 | by Kim Gooch

Many older adults worry about their memory and other thinking abilities. For example, they might be concerned about taking longer than before to learn new things, or they may sometimes forget to pay a bill. These changes are usually signs of mild forgetfulness — often a normal part of aging — not serious memory problems….

Continue reading at :

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/memory-forgetfulness-and-aging-whats-normal-and-whats-not

Alzheimer’s: Tips to make holidays more enjoyable

Posted on December 8, 2020 | by Kim Gooch

The holiday season can cause mixed feelings for a family affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia.

While typically a time for celebration, families may experience a sense of loss for the way things used to be. For caregivers, the holidays may create added work. You’ll also have to consider the needs of the person with dementia during holiday decorating and gatherings.

By adjusting your expectations and modifying some traditions, you may find meaningful ways to celebrate holidays.