From Suzhou to California

When Mr. Chen moved from Suzhou City, China, to California in 2023, life was not easy. He came to care for his wife but found himself in a new country where he did not speak English, could not drive, and faced health problems of his own. Getting to the doctor was difficult, and he often had to rely on his son for rides.

“Going to the community hospital was troublesome,” Mr. Chen said.

Everything changed when he joined WelbeHealth Rosemead in May 2024.

What Support did Mr. Chen receive?

At WelbeHealth, we believe in providing compassionate care for seniors, especially those who are most vulnerable. When Mr. Chen joined WelbeHealth, he began to feel supported in ways he hadn’t before. From the start, his care team helped him get hearing aids and eye surgery so he could see and hear better, and they made sure his medications were delivered right to his home.

To make daily life easier, they arranged in-home help and added safety upgrades to keep him comfortable and independent. When his wife needed emergency care, the WelbeHealth team stepped in quickly to make sure she received help. For Mr. Chen, this kind of care brought peace of mind and reminded him that he and his wife were not alone.

A Place for Community

Mr. Chen visits his center three times a week. Each day brings him joy and a sense of belonging. “When I come to the center, even before arriving, I’m already very excited,” he said. “When the van arrives, I greet the driver with ‘Good morning!’ When I arrive at the center, I say ‘Thank you.’ My mood when coming to the center is happy. I come happy and leave joyful.”

While in center, he enjoys the activities and friendships he has found. “Everyone here plays games together,” he shares. He enjoys group activities led by our Engagement Coordinators, and gentle exercises our therapy team uses to keep his body and mind active. “The staff are very caring,” he shared. When extra help is needed at home, WelbeHealth arranges caregivers to assist with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing.

Trusted Medical Care

Unlike traditional care settings where seniors need to travel to multiple locations for various services, WelbeHealth offers many support services right at our centers. Our trained specialists work side-by-side with primary care providers, nurses, therapists, and social workers.

Mr. Chen feels confident knowing his medical care comes first. “Dr. Chen is my doctor. He’s very careful and responsible, always asking about the participants condition.” he said. Mr. Chen is given medical checks every three months to six months to help determine his health needs and has peace of mind.

Living with Peace and Purpose

Now, Mr. Chen says his life feels happier and more stable. “Living the late years with reliable support. This center provides us with a happy environment. Like many other seniors, I’m very thankful for this center.”

He shared a Chinese saying that shares how he feels today: “In old age, one has something to think about; in old age, one has something to rely on.”

With the help of WelbeHealth, Mr. Chen has found more than care, he’s found a community that helps him live well and age happily.

FAQ for Those Considering a PACE Program

If you’re caring for an aging loved one or exploring options for yourself, Mr. Chen’s story highlights what to look for in a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE):

1. What should I look for in a good PACE program?

Choose a program that supports senior care options, the whole person, medical care, help at home, and emotional/social support, coordinated by one team.

2. Do PACE programs provide transportation?

Yes, before WelbeHealth, Mr. Chen had to rely on his son for rides. Now, transportation to appointments and day centers is part of his care.
➡️If you or your loved one don’t drive, choose a care provider that offers door-to-door transportation. It reduces loneliness and ensures consistent medical follow-up.

3. How does a PACE program support social connection?

Social connection is essential for mental health and well-being. Mr. Chen now visits the center three times a week, where he enjoys activities and friendships that keep him engaged and happy.
➡️Quality programs offer activities, group time, and regular center visits so seniors can make friends and feel less isolated.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help your loved ones age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost, while helping you navigate life as a caregiver. To see if you qualify, call: (888) 750-0248 | TTY 711 or visit: welbehealth.com/contact

Discover how physical therapy helps seniors stay strong, prevent falls, and live independently at home through WelbeHealth’s compassionate PACE care model.

Staying active is one of the best ways for seniors to stay healthy and independent. As we get older, keeping our balance can become more challenging, which increases the risk of falling. A fall can lead to serious injuries, but many can be prevented by building strength and improving balance through simple exercises and fall prevention tips.

This guide will show you some easy and safe exercises to improve balance and prevent falls. These exercises can be done at home and don’t require any special equipment. They focus on making you stronger, more flexible, and more stable on your feet.

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Why Exercise is Key to Preventing Falls

Our sense of balance comes from a team effort between our brain, our inner ears, our eyes, and our muscles. As we age, these systems can change. Muscles can get weaker, and our reaction time might slow down. This is why regular physical activity is so important.

Exercise helps in several ways:

• Strengthens Muscles: Strong leg and core muscles help support your body and keep you steady.
• Improves Balance: Exercises that challenge your stability help your body learn to control its position better.
• Increases Flexibility: Being flexible allows your body to move more freely and react better to sudden movements, which can prevent a stumble from becoming a fall.

Before you start any new exercise routine, it’s always a good idea to talk with your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you.

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Getting Started: Safety First

When doing balance exercises, safety should always be your top priority.

• Have Support Nearby: Do these exercises near a wall or a sturdy chair that you can hold onto if you feel unsteady.
• Start Slow: Don’t push yourself too hard at first. It’s better to do a few exercises correctly than to overdo it.
• Wear Good Shoes: Wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Avoid doing exercises in socks or slippers.
• Listen to Your Body: If you feel pain or dizziness, stop right away.

Now, let’s get moving with some simple exercises.

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1. Simple Balance Exercises

These exercises directly challenge your stability and are great for beginners.

Stand on One Foot

This classic exercise is one of the best ways to improve your balance.

1. Stand behind a sturdy chair, holding on for support.
2. Lift your right foot off the floor and try to balance on your left foot.
3. Hold this position for 10 seconds.
4. Lower your right foot and repeat with your left foot.
5. Try to do this 5 times on each leg.

As you get better, you can try holding on with just one hand, then just your fingertips, and eventually without holding on at all.

Heel-to-Toe Walk

This exercise helps you practice walking in a straight line and improves coordination.

1. Stand with the heel of one foot touching the toes of your other foot.
2. Step forward, putting your back foot’s heel right in front of the toes of your front foot.
3. Take 15-20 steps like this. You can use a wall for support if you need to.
4. Imagine you are walking on a tightrope.

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2. Strengthening Exercises

Stronger muscles provide better support for your body, which is essential for good balance.

Chair Sit-to-Stand

This exercise strengthens your leg and core muscles, which are crucial for walking and balance.

1. Sit in the middle of a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor, shoulder-width apart.
2. Without using your hands, stand up slowly. Keep your back straight.
3. Slowly sit back down with control.
4. Repeat this 10 times.

If this is too hard at first, you can use the chair’s arms to help you.

Leg Lifts

This exercise targets the muscles on the side of your hips, which help you stay stable when walking.

1. Stand behind a chair, holding on for support.
2. Slowly lift your right leg out to the side, keeping it straight. Don’t lean your body.
3. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg.
4. Repeat 10 times, then switch to the other leg.

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3. Flexibility Exercises

Flexibility helps you move more easily and can prevent injuries if you do start to lose your balance.

Ankle Circles

Good ankle flexibility can help you stay balanced on uneven surfaces.

1. Sit in a chair.
2. Lift your right foot off the floor.
3. Slowly rotate your ankle in a circle 10 times in one direction.
4. Then, rotate it 10 times in the other direction.
5. Switch to your left foot and repeat.

Calf Stretch

Tight calf muscles can affect your balance.

1. Stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall for support.
2. Step your right foot back, keeping your leg straight and your heel on the floor.
3. Bend your front knee until you feel a gentle stretch in the calf of your back leg.
4. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds.
5. Switch legs and repeat.

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Making Exercise a Daily Habit

The key to seeing results is to be consistent. Try to do these exercises every day, or at least a few times a week. You can break them up and do them at different times throughout the day. For example, you could do ankle circles while watching TV or practice standing on one foot while waiting for water to boil.

Combining these exercises with a daily walk can make an even bigger impact on your overall health and balance. The more you move, the more confident and steady you will become.

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A Stronger, Steadier You

Preventing falls is all about staying active and strong. These simple exercises to improve balance are a great way to start. By making them a part of your daily routine, you can build the strength, stability, and confidence needed to stay on your feet and live an active, independent life.

Take the first step today. A little effort each day can lead to a safer and healthier tomorrow.

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or specialist for specific questions or concerns.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help your loved ones age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost, while helping you navigate life as a caregiver. To see if you qualify, call: (888) 750-0248 | TTY 711 or visit: welbehealth.com/contact

As our family members get older, many of them want to continue living in their own homes. This is often called “aging in place.” It allows them to keep their independence and stay in a familiar, comfortable setting. For families, supporting aging loved one at home is a loving way to help them stay safe, healthy, and happy.

This guide offers 10 simple ways families can support their aging loved ones at home. These tips can help you provide the right care and make a positive difference in their daily lives.

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Why Supporting Seniors at Home Matters

Helping an older adult live at home is about more than just convenience. It helps them feel in control of their lives and connected to their memories. When seniors stay in their own homes, they often report feeling happier and more content.

Family support is key to making this possible. By working together, you can help your loved one stay safe, manage their health, and feel connected to the people who care about them most.

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1. Make the Home Safe

One of the first steps is to make sure your loved one’s home is safe. Simple changes can prevent falls and other accidents.

How to improve home safety:

• Remove clutter: Clear walkways of things like loose rugs, electrical cords, and piles of papers.
• Install grab bars: Add grab bars in the bathroom near the toilet and in the shower.
• Improve lighting: Make sure all rooms are well-lit. Use nightlights in hallways and bathrooms.
• Check smoke detectors: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly and replace the batteries.

A safe home provides peace of mind for both you and your loved one.

2. Help with Regular Health Check-ups

Keeping up with doctor’s appointments is very important for seniors. Regular check-ups can catch health problems early.

How to help with healthcare:

• Keep a calendar: Mark down all doctor, dentist, and eye appointments.
• Offer rides: Driving your loved one to their appointments can be a big help.
• Take notes: During the visit, write down the doctor’s instructions so you can remember them later.
• Manage medications: Help organize pills in a weekly pill box to make sure they are taken correctly.

Staying on top of health visits helps manage chronic conditions and prevent new issues.

3. Encourage Social Connections

Loneliness can be a big problem for seniors who live alone. Feeling isolated can lead to depression and other health issues so it is important to maintain social connections.

Ways to promote social activity:

• Schedule regular visits: Plan visits from family and friends. Even a short chat can brighten their day.
• Use technology: Teach them how to use a smartphone or tablet to video call relatives.
• Find local senior groups: Look for community centers or clubs that offer activities for seniors.
• Share a meal: Eating together is a wonderful way to connect and spend quality time.

Keeping your loved one socially active is great for their mental and emotional health.

4. Assist with Healthy Meals

Good nutrition is vital for staying healthy and having energy. Some seniors may find it hard to shop for groceries or cook for themselves.

How to support healthy eating:

• Help with grocery shopping: Offer to pick up groceries or set up a delivery service.
• Prepare meals together: Make cooking a fun activity you can do together.
• Stock the freezer: Prepare meals in batches that can be frozen and easily reheated.
• Focus on simple, healthy foods: Encourage meals with fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

A healthy diet can boost their immune system and improve their overall well-being.

5. Promote Gentle Physical Activity

Staying active is important for maintaining strength, balance, and a positive mood. Exercise doesn’t have to be difficult.

Simple ways to stay active:

• Go for walks: A short walk around the neighborhood is a great form of exercise.
• Try chair exercises: Gentle exercises done while sitting can improve flexibility.
• Do some gardening: Tending to plants is a light activity that gets them moving.
• Join a class: Look for senior fitness classes like gentle yoga or tai chi.

Encourage movement that is safe and enjoyable for your loved one.

6. Help with Household Chores

Keeping a house clean and organized can become difficult with age. A little help can make a big difference.

How to assist with chores:

• Create a cleaning schedule: Offer to help with tasks like vacuuming or dusting on a regular basis.
• Hire help if needed: If the workload is too much, consider hiring a cleaning service.
• Take care of yard work: Mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or raking leaves can be tough for seniors.
• Organize mail and bills: Help sort through mail to make sure important bills are not missed.

A tidy home is a more pleasant and safer place to live.

7. Provide Emotional Support

Listening and showing you care is one of the most important things you can do. Aging can bring on feelings of anxiety or sadness.

Ways to offer emotional support:

• Listen patiently: Give them space to share their feelings and concerns without judgment.
• Be positive and encouraging: Celebrate small victories and remind them of their strengths.
• Respect their independence: Ask for their opinion and involve them in decisions about their care.
• Just be there: Sometimes, your presence is the most comforting thing of all.

Knowing they have someone to talk to can ease many of their worries.

8. Arrange Transportation

Losing the ability to drive can make a senior feel isolated. Helping them get around is a practical way to support their independence.

Transportation solutions:

• Offer rides: Drive them to the store, appointments, or social events.
• Use ride-sharing services: Teach them how to use services designed for seniors.
• Check public transit: Look into local bus or shuttle services that cater to older adults.
• Coordinate with other family members: Create a schedule so everyone can help with rides.

Reliable transportation allows them to stay connected to their community.

9. Plan for Emergencies

Having a plan in place for emergencies can reduce stress and ensure your loved one gets help quickly if needed.

Emergency planning tips:

• Create a contact list: Keep a list of emergency contacts, doctors, and family members by the phone.
• Consider a medical alert system: These devices allow seniors to call for help with the push of a button.
• Have important documents ready: Keep copies of medical history, insurance cards, and legal papers in an easy-to-find place.
• Talk about the plan: Make sure your loved one knows what to do in an emergency.

Being prepared can make a scary situation more manageable.

10. Take Care of Yourself

Being a caregiver for a loved one is rewarding, but it can also be stressful. It’s important to take care of your own well-being so you can provide the best support.

How to care for yourself:

• Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask other family members or friends to share the responsibilities.
• Take breaks: Set aside time for yourself to rest and recharge.
• Find a support group: Connecting with other caregivers can be a great source of comfort and advice.
• Stay healthy: Make sure you are eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep.

When you take care of yourself, you are better able to care for others.

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A Team Effort for a Happy Home

Supporting an aging loved one at home is a team effort. By working together, families can create a safe, loving, and supportive environment. These 10 tips provide a starting point for helping your loved one live independently and with dignity in the place they call home.

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or specialist for specific questions or concerns.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help your loved ones age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost, while helping you navigate life as a caregiver. To see if you qualify, call: (888) 750-0248 | TTY 711 or visit: welbehealth.com/contact

Taking care of your teeth is important no matter how old you are, but it gets even more important as you become a senior. Good oral health helps older adults eat the foods they love, feel confident, and stay healthy. Unfortunately, many seniors have problems with their teeth and gums, and this can make life harder.

Let’s learn about why taking care of your teeth and mouth matters when you’re older, what problems to watch out for, and simple tips to keep your smile bright.

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Why Is Oral Health Important for Seniors?

Oral health is about more than just having a nice smile. If your mouth is not healthy, it can lead to other problems like heart disease, pneumonia, and diabetes. Getting older, taking medicine, and some health habits may make it harder to keep your mouth healthy.

Having a healthy mouth helps you eat, talk, and feel good about yourself. If you don’t take care of your mouth, you could lose teeth, have pain, or get infections that affect your everyday life.

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Common Oral Health Problems in Seniors

Seniors can face special problems with their teeth and gums. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection that makes gums sore and can hurt the tissue that holds your teeth in place. About 7 out of 10 seniors have gum disease. Things that make gum disease worse include smoking, diabetes, not brushing, and crooked teeth.

If gum disease is not treated, it can lead to losing teeth and even heart problems.

2. Tooth Loss

Losing teeth is not fun when you’re an adult. If you lose teeth, it can be hard to eat healthy foods and you might not feel like smiling. Around 1 in 4 seniors have lost all their natural teeth, often because of gum disease or cavities.

3. Diabetes and the Mouth

If you have diabetes, you have a bigger chance of getting gum disease. This is because high sugar in your saliva helps germs grow. Gum infections can also make it hard to control your blood sugar.

4. Pneumonia

If you have germs in your mouth, they can get into your lungs and cause pneumonia, which is a very serious sickness. Seniors are more likely to have big problems if they get pneumonia, so cleaning your mouth helps you stay safe.

5. Heart Problems

Germs from your mouth can sometimes go to your heart and cause an infection called endocarditis. Taking care of your teeth and gums can help protect your heart, too.

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How Poor Oral Health Can Change Your Life

When your mouth hurts, it can make eating, talking, and even smiling hard. Tooth pain or bad-fitting dentures can make you not want to eat, which can cause weight loss and make you weak. Bad breath and missing teeth can also make you feel embarrassed and not want to be with friends.

Sometimes, if your mouth is sore all the time, you might feel sad or frustrated. This is why brushing, flossing, and going to the dentist are about more than just teeth—they can help you feel happy and social, too.

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Easy Tips for Keeping Your Mouth Healthy

Taking care of your teeth doesn’t have to be hard. Here are some simple things seniors can do every day:

1. Visit the Dentist

Try to see a dentist two times every year for a check-up and cleaning. Dentists can find little problems before they get big and help you keep your teeth healthy.

2. Brush and Floss

Brush your teeth two times a day and floss once a day. If you have trouble holding a toothbrush because of arthritis, try using an electric toothbrush—it can be easier to use and cleans well.

3. Clean Dentures

If you have dentures, clean them every day and take them out at night. Dirty dentures can cause sores or infections. Go to the dentist so they can check if your dentures still fit right.

4. Don’t Use Tobacco

Smoking or using tobacco hurts your mouth and teeth. It can cause gum disease, tooth loss, and even cancer. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor.

5. Eat Healthy Foods

Eating fruits, vegetables, and dairy helps keep your teeth and gums strong. Try to eat less sugar and skip sweet drinks and snacks—these can cause cavities.

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What About the Cost of Dental Care?

Many seniors worry about the cost of seeing a dentist, especially since Medicare doesn’t usually pay for cleanings or fillings. But skipping visits can cause bigger (and more expensive) problems later.

Look for programs or groups that help pay for dental care. Some places, like WelbeHealth, offer dental care as part of their service for seniors.

Taking care of your mouth is a big part of staying healthy as you get older. By brushing and flossing, seeing the dentist, and eating healthy foods, you can keep your smile strong and bright. Encourage your friends or family members to take small steps today, like brushing just a bit longer or making that dentist appointment. A healthy mouth makes it easier to eat, smile, and enjoy life every day.

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or specialist for specific questions or concerns.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help your loved ones age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost, while helping you navigate life as a caregiver. To see if you qualify, call: (888) 750-0248 | TTY 711 or visit: welbehealth.com/contact