Since October 1, 2012, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has mandated that CMS take action to reduce hospital readmissions. As part of this effort, section 3025 of the ACA created the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program (HRRP).

The HRRP is a Medicare value-based purchasing program designed to encourage hospitals to enhance communication and coordination of care, engage patients and caregivers in discharge plans, and ultimately reduce avoidable readmissions. It serves as a benchmark for hospital standards and payment purposes.

Embracing the Program

At Angel Connection Nursing Services (ACNS), we are proud to fully support and embrace this program. With over a decade of experience and strong relationships in the community, our caregiving services have evolved to meet the highest standards.

We understand the importance of readmission reduction, and our team of nurses is dedicated to providing quality end-of-life care. Our goal is to ensure patients have access to the support they need before and after hospitalization.

Our nurses work closely with hospitals, physicians, medical staff, family members, and caregivers to provide optimal patient care in a timely manner. Through our extensive network of resources, we can provide comprehensive discharge planning and follow-up care for patients returning home after a hospital stay.

How We Make It Work

So, how does it work? Before a patient is discharged, we ensure that our caregivers receive comprehensive training to handle transfers and provide appropriate care. We then thoroughly review the discharge papers, ensuring medication completeness and providing clear explanations to the caregiver. We also coordinate home health services and arrange follow-up doctor’s appointments.

To ensure maximum comfort, we make sure that DME (durable medical equipment) is in place. Our caregivers are fully oriented and endorsed before starting their service.

Following Guidelines To Succeed

Thanks to our dedication and the program’s guidelines, we are proud to report that we have achieved very low to zero readmissions within 30 days of our collaboration with the program.

Join us at Angel Connection Nursing Services, where every client is treated as a person, not a number, and every job is seen as a blessing, not a chore.

Let us work together to improve care and reduce readmissions.

Details and numbers provided by Jean Alhambra.

Making healthcare decisions for elderly family members can be a daunting task. It requires you to balance the goals of offering support and independence while navigating what is best regarding medical care, assisted living arrangements, and other lifestyle considerations. This blog post will guide you through the options available to your loved ones—from private nursing homes to home health aides—to help make the best choice for their needs. With careful consideration and an open mind, you’ll find that making this decision is not as difficult as it may seem initially. Read on to learn how to choose the right option for your elderly family members’ healthcare needs so they can live a long and healthy life surrounded by those who love them!

Consider The Type Of Care Your Family Member Needs – Is It A Long Or Short-Term Solution, In-Home Care, Or An Assisted Living Facility

When faced with caring for a family member, many factors must be considered. One of the most important is determining what type of care they need. Is it a short-term solution, such as after surgery or illness, or a long-term solution for a chronic condition? Additionally, you’ll need to decide whether in-home care is feasible or an assisted living facility would be a better option. Each choice has its benefits and challenges. Ultimately, the decision should be made with the best interests of your loved one in mind, weighing all options carefully and seeking advice when needed.

Research The Costs Associated With Different Options And Ensure You Have An Affordable Solution

When embarking on a project, it’s crucial to research the costs associated with different options. From materials to labor, each element comes with its price tag, making it essential to have a clear understanding of the expenses before moving forward. Ensuring an affordable solution can bring you peace of mind during the planning stages, the project, and beyond. Doing your due diligence and being mindful of your budget can create a successful outcome without breaking the bank. Remember, affordable doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality, so take the time to explore your options and find the right fit for your needs.

Review Different Facilities And Services Available In Your Area

From gyms to recreation centers, plenty of facilities in my area cater to various interests and lifestyles. For those who value fitness, high-quality gyms equipped with state-of-the-art machines and equipment stand ready to help them achieve their fitness goals. Recreation centers are also great options for families with children, with various activities geared toward different age groups. Some facilities even offer community-oriented programs and events, making them great spaces for fostering a sense of connection and belonging. With such a diverse range of options, it’s easy to see why my area is an excellent place for locals to find whatever they need to enhance their quality of life.

Talk To Your Doctor And Other Health Professionals About Different Options

When making decisions about your health, having all the information you need is crucial. That’s why having a candid and open conversation with your doctor and other health professionals is essential. They can provide valuable insight into various treatment options and may even suggest ones you hadn’t considered. It’s always best to ask questions and voice your concerns to feel informed and confident about any decisions. By discussing different options, you can work together to find the best plan for you and your individual needs. Remember, you are your advocate, and taking an active role in your health and well-being is essential.

Conclusion

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when determining the best caregiving solution for your loved one. Proper research and careful consideration of all options make it possible to find a good fit. You never know who else in your local community has faced similar situations and could provide invaluable advice for you as well. Dedicating sufficient time and effort upfront will pay off in the long run by ensuring that your family member receives the best, most affordable care available. Don’t be afraid to discuss your concerns with a doctor or other healthcare professional who can guide the process. By considering all potential costs and consulting with the right experts, you can make an informed decision that gives you peace of mind and provides your loved one with quality care.

Homecare services and healthcare professionals derive from two fields but are intrinsically linked by the common goal of creating a safe, healthy environment for those in need. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to providing quality care, as various approaches must be taken depending on the individual’s needs. From hands-on medical assistance to enabling greater independence, understanding each system is essential for delivering optimal care that puts individuals at ease while keeping them safe. This blog post will explore the benefits of homecare services versus professional healthcare to develop an informed action plan you can trust.

What Is Home Care And What Services Do They Provide

There comes a time in everyone’s life when they may need additional assistance to maintain their daily routines. That’s where home care comes in. It’s a service designed to support those who need help with their daily living activities. The services range from basic housekeeping and meal preparation to specialized medical care. 

Home care services can benefit individuals who are elderly, disabled, chronically ill, or recovering from an injury or surgery. Home care allows individuals to receive the care they need in the comfort of their own homes and provides peace of mind to loved ones who may live far away or have other responsibilities. With home care, individuals can maintain independence while receiving personalized care tailored to their needs.

As we age, many of us require extra help with everyday tasks. That’s where home care services come in. Utilizing a home care service allows seniors to receive assistance with daily activities while maintaining independence. From medication management to meal preparation, a home care service provides personalized care to meet the unique needs of every individual. Not only do such services provide seniors with physical assistance, but they also offer emotional support and companionship. 

And by receiving care at home, seniors can continue living in familiar surroundings and maintain their sense of belonging to their community. There are countless benefits to using a home care service, including improved quality of life, peace of mind for family members, and reduced healthcare costs. Investing in a home care service is an investment in the well-being and safety of our loved ones.

What Should You Pay Attention To When Choosing A Home Care Service Provider

Choosing a home care service provider for yourself or a loved one is an important decision that requires careful consideration. When selecting a provider, paying attention to their quality of care is essential. Look for providers that offer personalized care plans tailored to their client’s unique needs and preferences. Also, ensure they have well-trained and qualified staff experienced in providing the care you or your loved one needs. Another factor to consider is the reputation of the provider. 

Look for reviews and testimonials from current and previous clients to understand their experiences with the provider. Lastly, consider the cost of the services and whether they are covered by insurance. By focusing on these critical factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a home care provider that best fits your needs.

Ways To Reduce Home Care Costs

As modern medicine and technology continue advancing, people rely more on home care. There are several ways to reduce the cost of home care. One option is to hire a caregiver through a private agency rather than independently. These agencies often offer more affordable rates and provide additional benefits such as supervision and quality control. 

Another option is to inquire about government assistance programs, which vary by state and income level. Additionally, telemedicine services can allow for remote check-ins and consultations, cutting down on in-person visits and associated expenses. By exploring these and other cost-saving strategies, individuals and families can continue to receive necessary home care without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

We have now explored the different aspects of home care and the services it can provide. It is pretty clear that home care has a lot to offer, and choosing the right provider can make all of the difference. Home care should be tailored to meet an individual’s needs. Therefore it’s essential to pick the right provider to develop a trusting relationship. Paying attention to cost is essential, but it should never come at the expense of quality medical care. Finally, if someone in need of home care is considering hiring someone privately, always ensure that they are involved in directing their care to ensure proper protocols are followed and that the person’s well-being is maintained. These considerations combined can help individuals get the best possible outcome from home care.

Did you know there are many benefits of reading?

It helps to exercise your loved one’s brain in many ways. Furthermore, reading can provide a challenging brain activity to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

We house compassionate care providers. For inquiries about care services, you can call us at 562-420-4695.

Do you think Halloween is just for the youngsters? Think again!

The truth is there are many activities that you can prepare for your senior loved ones during Halloween. It’s a plus if the community that you belong to has prepared something for them. But if nothing is prepared yet, you can always do something and make your older folks partake in the celebration. So, are you ready to organize a Halloween event for them?

We have prepared a list of easy and fun activities for seniors this Halloween.

Halloween costume contest
This is the best way to encourage seniors to pick up costumes and actually wear them! Dressing up can make them feel part of the celebration and there is an excitement knowing that someone is going to win as Best Dressed!

So, allow them to look for their choice of spooky costumes and make sure to vote for them!

Old Folks’ Trick or Treat
For a change, let them do the trick or treat this year! It has always been the kids’ favorite, but once they’re done, you can let your seniors do it.

Pumpkin painting
Pumpkin is a traditional sight for Halloween. Another activity is to let them paint pumpkins and
pick the scariest looking one at the end of the celebration. This is a fun and easy project that your senior loved ones will surely love!

Singing and Dancing

It is easy to grab the Karaoke and let them sing and dance the whole party!

Do you have other activities in mind? Share them with us!

In commemoration of the World’s Alzheimer’s Day, we want to dedicate this blog post to all the people who are fighting for their memories because of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is irreversible and progressive and the most difficult part of the disease is to see a loved one lose their memories along with a part of their personality. This disease continues to shatter the hearts of many families and we are one with them in their fight. Many scientists and medical professionals have been working against the disease for nearly two decades now and finally, there seems to be hope.

If you have not heard about it yet, we want to share this new development with you!

Just recently, we read the news regarding an open-label clinical trial working with AD patients. Eight people with AD were subjected to a test that included a wearable device emitting electromagnetic impulses. The conclusion showed that the device can significantly reduce memory loss in Alzheimer’s by disaggregating toxic protein formed in the brain. This had been proven helpful in seven out of the eight patients.

If you have a loved one suffering from AD, we want to let you know that their memories are worth fighting for. There is always hope as long we are living and we are one with you!

If your loved one is suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, it’s not too late to help them. Lifestyle changes can play a huge role in managing this painful disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint pain, tenderness, and fatigue that can affect one’s activities and daily life in general. As a home care company dealing with many elderly patients on a daily basis, we want to ensure our clients’ comfort and well-being by helping them manage conditions like arthritis.

According to records, fall incidents are the leading cause of injuries among elderly people. These often result in hip fractures, broken bones, and head injuries that can be both fatal and non-fatal. Fall incidents are also the leading cause of deaths from injuries.

This is why helping an aging parent, grandparent, or neighbor reduce the risk of falling is necessary. It is easier because falls can be prevented.

As your care services providers, we would like to share some basic steps that you can do to help prevent falls:

• Assess the condition of your loved ones. Ask them important questions related to difficulty in standing or getting up.
• Talk about their medications. Ask them if they experience side effects in their medications. If they do, you can talk to their doctors and ask if they can have their medications reviewed.
• Talk about their last eye checkup. If your older loved one wears glasses, make sure they’re using the right glasses as advised by their doctor.
• Assess the environment of your loved ones and ensure the following:

1. Remove clutter.
2. Repair or remove tripping hazards.
3. Install handrails, if necessary.
4. Advise them to move carefully.

The best move is to have someone monitor the movements of your loved ones most time of the day. If you need help in taking care of your loved ones, you can get the service of the caregivers at Angel Connection Nursing Services. If you are interested in our services, you can call us at 562-420-4695.

Due to age and deteriorating physical and cognitive functions, an elderly may need assistance when it comes to performing personal hygiene activities. If this is the case for your loved one, we laid down some tips so that you can help them with their hygiene routines.

1. Show a genuine will to help.
Since bathing and grooming are personal, the first thing to do is to show your willingness and to offer genuine help to your elderly loved one. Do it in a way that they won’t feel embarrassed and instead, make them easily accept the fact that they indeed need help.

2. Help them develop and follow routines.
Help them make and stick to a schedule of hygiene activities such as bathing, brushing of teeth, and grooming. This way, their body will have a system to follow on a regular basis. It will not also be hard for them to do certain hygiene activities because they will be scheduled.

3. Ensure safety in performing hygiene routines.
Put safety measures when your elderly loved one is performing a hygiene activity like taking a bath. You can provide safety materials such as handrails, shower chairs or anti-slip covers in the tub. Many accidents like slips and falls occur during bathing time.

4. Choose the right hygiene products for them.
Make sure that the products that you get for your loved one are elderly-friendly. These often come as gentle soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and even toothbrushes. Remember to avoid products that cause itch and other discomforts.

5. Make sure that their “hidden areas” are covered by their bathing activity. Remind them or their care provider to cover sensitive areas such as under folds of skin, wrinkles, and other areas. If neglected, such areas can collect bacteria which cause skin infections.

6. Lastly, make sure that they are enjoying their hygiene routines by talking to them or adding fun things like music and story-telling.

Can you think of other tips to help an elderly with their hygiene routines?