Tag Archive for: program of all-inclusive care for the elderly

How Much Does a Wheelchair Cost on Average?

There are several reasons why you may need a wheelchair, but how much does a wheelchair cost? These are the prices you can expect.

When it comes to purchasing a wheelchair, one of the first questions that may come to mind is, “How much does a wheelchair cost?” The price of a wheelchair can vary greatly, depending on several factors.

Buying a wheelchair can get expensive, but don’t worry. There’s a way to get a reduced price on it, which we’ll discuss later. With that said, let’s take a look at the average wheelchair costs and how you can potentially save money.

How Much Does a Wheelchair Cost?

The cost of a manual wheelchair typically falls in the range of $100 to $500. These wheelchairs are often made of lightweight materials, like aluminum. They’re designed for individuals who have limited mobility but don’t require additional features.

Manual wheelchairs can be self-propelled or pushed by a caregiver. They typically have basic features, like adjustable footrests and armrests.

For those who require more advanced features, the cost of a manual wheelchair can increase significantly. Wheelchairs with specialized seats or custom modifications range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. 

These wheelchairs are often recommended for individuals with specific medical conditions or mobility needs. They may include features like tilt-in-space recline, power-assisted wheels, or specialized cushioning for pressure relief.

Electric Wheelchair Prices

Electric wheelchairs, also known as power wheelchairs, are another option. They’re powered by batteries and maneuver using a joystick or other control system. The cost of an electric wheelchair varies depending on weight capacity, range, and additional features. 

Basic electric wheelchairs start at around $1,500. However, the price can go up to $5,000 or more for higher-end models.

It’s important to note that these prices are just averages and can differ based on where the wheelchair is purchased. Prices may also be influenced by insurance coverage or discounts offered by certain providers. 

Furthermore, extra costs may be required when buying a wheelchair. If ramps or lifts are needed, that’s usually a separate charge.

When considering the cost of a wheelchair, always factor in the ongoing maintenance and repair costs. Like any piece of durable medical equipment, wheelchairs require periodic maintenance or repairs.

It’s recommended to inquire about warranty options or service plans. These options will help to mitigate these potential costs.

Medicare and Wheelchairs

Although wheelchairs are pricey, Medicare Part B may cover them as durable medical equipment. This means that seniors can save a significant amount of money.

Even without Medicare, most durable medical equipment companies offer payment plans to customers.

Understanding Wheelchair Costs

How much does a wheelchair cost? We hope this article answers that burning question for you. As you can see, there are a lot of factors that go into the overall price of a wheelchair. Thankfully, Medicare may help with the financial load.

If you or your loved one needs assistance, we’re here for you. At WelbeHealth, our goal is to help the elderly thrive. We provide full-service care for seniors through in-home care, prescription delivery, and more.

To learn more about us, call 1 (888) 530-4415, or contact us on our website.

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diabetes

How Does Diabetes Affect the Endocrine System? A Helpful Guide

1 in 10 Americans are dealing with diabetes. On top of that, 20 percent of people with diabetes have no idea they have it. Uncontrolled diabetes does a number on many parts of your body, especially your endocrine system. 

How does diabetes affect the endocrine system? We have all of the answers for you right here. Read on to learn all about living with diabetes.

What Is the Endocrine System?

The endocrine system is made up of a number of different organs and glands, all of which are meant to promote energy metabolism. The most prominent organ in the endocrine system is the pancreas, which regulates your blood glucose levels. It also includes the ovaries and testes.

Endocrine system glands include the adrenal, pineal, pituitary, and thyroid gland. The adrenal gland boosts your blood glucose levels and causes your heart to beat faster, while the thyroid gland regulates your metabolism. Finally, the pituitary gland is in charge of growth and the pineal gland regulates your sleep.

How Does Diabetes Affect the Endocrine System?

Think of your endocrine system like an engine. The food you eat fuels that engine, which in turn has an impact on your blood glucose levels. Ideally, you want a steady level of blood glucose to keep your body running. 

When you have diabetes, your body has a harder time regulating your blood glucose levels. They can either go far too high or far too low. What happens to your blood glucose depends on the type of diabetes with which you’re diagnosed.

Type 1 Diabetes

People who have type 1 diabetes are unable to produce enough insulin to properly respond to the intake of food. This causes blood glucose levels to spike. People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes have to inject insulin in order to properly regulate their blood glucose.

Type 2 Diabetes

People who have type 2 diabetes produce sufficient insulin, but their body doesn’t respond to it. This also results in high blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes treatment includes medication that increases your body’s sensitivity to insulin and keeps blood glucose levels balanced. 

Living with Diabetes

The impact of diabetes extends far beyond your endocrine system. If you have it, you should be seeing a doctor regularly to make sure it’s well controlled. You’ll also want to get eye exams and visit the podiatrist to avoid things like diabetic retinopathy and diabetic neuropathy.

The better you control your diabetes, the better the likelihood of positive health outcomes!

Are You in Need of Diabetes Help?

How does diabetes affect the endocrine system? 

As it turns out, the answer depends on whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. At a minimum, your body isn’t producing enough insulin or it isn’t responding to insulin. No matter what type of diabetes you have, it’s critical that you see your doctor regularly to make sure it’s properly managed.

Are you looking for compassionate care for seniors living with diabetes? WelbeHealth is there for you. Contact us today to learn how we provide seniors with full-service healthcare and personalized support to help you age well at home and in your community. 

senior woman painting

5 Easy Crafts for Seniors With Dementia

There are several ways you can keep someone with dementia engaged. Check out this guide for some easy crafts for seniors with dementia.


13.9% of Americans
 have some kind of dementia. Art and crafts are a great way to entertain and help dementia patients pass the time. They create new neural connections. 

Engaging in creative activities can have a positive impact. Both on the mental and emotional well-being of seniors. This is especially true for folks with dementia.

Crafts provide a stimulating and enjoyable way for seniors to express themselves. They can reminisce and maintain a sense of purpose.

Here are five rewarding and easy crafts for seniors with dementia.

1. Memory Boxes

Memory boxes are a wonderful way for seniors with dementia to connect with their past.

To create a memory box, gather a small, sturdy box. Collect various items, such as:

  • Old photographs
  • Postcards
  • Trinkets
  • Other sentimental objects

Encourage your loved one to decorate the box. Use paint, stickers, or markers.

As you work on the memory box together, prompt them with questions about the items they’re including. Encourage them to share stories and memories associated with each item.

The completed memory box becomes a valuable keepsake. It can be revisited and enjoyed repeatedly.

2. Collage Art

All you need are old magazines, scissors, glue, and a piece of paper or cardboard as the canvas.

Request your loved one to cut out images and words from magazines. These images should appeal to them or bring back memories.

As you create collages, discuss the pictures and words they choose. Ask open-ended questions to spark conversations.

The process of creating collages allows for self-expression.

3. Painted Rocks

Painted rocks are a simple and enjoyable craft. It can be done indoors or outdoors.

Collect smooth and flat rocks.

Provide non-toxic acrylic paint, brushes, and water. Ask your loved one to paint the rocks however they prefer.

Painted rocks can serve as garden decorations or paperweights. The act of painting the rocks promotes creativity and focus. It also offers a sense of achievement.

It’s a craft that can be done at a relaxed pace. This allows for breaks and conversations as needed.

4. Bead Jewelry

This craft enhances fine motor skills and provides a sense of accomplishment. You can create necklaces, bracelets, or even keychains.

To get started, gather an assortment of items, like:

  • Colorful beads
  • Strings
  • Clasps
  • Pliers

Guide your loved one through the process. Help them select beads. Offering assistance with threading and fastening clasps if needed.

Bead jewelry provides a tactile and visually stimulating activity. The finished pieces can be proudly worn or gifted to loved ones.

5. Paper Flowers

You’ll need colored paper, scissors, glue, and green pipe cleaners.

Ask your loved one to cut out petal shapes from colored paper. Attach them to the pipe cleaner stem with glue.

These paper flowers are simple to create. They can be arranged in vases or used for various decorative purposes.

Choose Easy Crafts for Seniors With Dementia

Living with dementia isn’t easy either for the patient or their relatives. That’s why easy crafts for seniors with dementia can be such a boon. They can entertain and help build a connection.

Check out WelbeHealths Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). It’s a full-service option for seniors. It allows them to stay at home and in their community. Learn if you qualify here.

depressed senior on bench

How to Ask for Help With Depression: A Guide for Seniors

Living with depression can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. This is how to ask for help with depression.

Are you experiencing a loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy? Do you have feelings of sadness and hopelessness or difficulty sleeping? If so, you may be struggling with depression.

As we get older, life can become more lonely and it may leave you feeling lost.

Living with this disorder can be challenging, especially if you don’t know how to ask for help with depression. You might feel it’s not worth reaching out to someone.

If this describes you in any way, keep reading. This article discusses depression, the symptoms, and how to ask for help so you don’t have to feel this way any longer.

What Is Depression?

Depression, also called depressive disorder, is a mental disorder. It’s common and is characterized by an all-encompassing sadness or negative view of life. Depression affects how you think and act, leading to various emotional and physical problems that interfere with daily functioning.

Depression can occur at any age; however, it begins more commonly as an adult. There are several types of depression, such as:

Signs of Depression

Depression can present differently from person to person. Typically, symptoms include:

  • Feelings of sadness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
  • Changes in appetite
  • Changes in weight
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Excess fatigue
  • Feelings of worthlessness
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Thoughts of suicide or suicide ideation

How to Ask for Help With Depression

Depression as a senior is manageable if you seek treatment. A medical professional will typically prescribe an antidepressant and possibly a mood stabilizer. If you’re unsure of how to ask for help with depression, there are a few things you can try.

Find a Trusted Person

Identify a trusted person with whom you can confide in. This can be a family member, friend, pastor, etc. 

Be Open and Honest

When you sit down and chat with a trusted person, you must be open and honest about your feelings. Ask them if they’re willing to help you through this difficult time.

Seek Professional Depression Treatment

If you need help seeking professional help, ask someone you trust to help find a professional or accompany you to one. A professional will have the necessary experience to help.

Help Is Around the Corner

Living with depression can be challenging as a senior, but it’s not something you have to battle alone. If you’re unsure how to ask for help with depression, ask someone you trust if they’re willing to listen.

You want to choose the right time to ask, and when they accept, be honest with how you feel. Professional help is strongly recommended wherever possible to assist with medications if necessary.

WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help you 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. Many of our centers have support groups available to help you through your difficult times. To learn more visit: www.welbehealth.com/contact/

Stay Safe in the Sun – A Guide for Seniors

As the summer heat approaches, everyone loves to head outside and enjoy the outdoors after months of being cooped up indoors. However, the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can cause serious skin damage and lead to different types of skin cancer. For seniors, sun safety is essential to avoid skin damage and protect themselves from excessive heat. Let’s discuss some important tips and tricks on how seniors can stay safe in the sun.

  1. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
    One of the easiest ways for seniors to stay safe in the sun is to wear sun-protective clothing. This includes wearing long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and other clothing that will keep your skin protected from the sun. Look for fabrics that are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and provide UV protection. Opt for clothes that cover your arms and legs as much as possible to minimize sun exposure.
  1. Apply Sunscreen Regularly
    Sunscreen is a must regardless of age. Seniors should choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen liberally at least 30 minutes before you go outside and reapply it every two hours or more often if you sweat or swim. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your ears, back of the neck, hands, and feet. These areas are often overlooked but can be severely affected by harmful UV rays.
  1. Avoid Peak Sun Hours
    Typically, the sun’s UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seniors should avoid being outside during these peak hours or plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense. Even on cloudy or overcast days, it’s essential to stay cautious and wear sun-protective clothing and sunscreen.
  1. Stay Hydrated
    Staying hydrated is essential in the summer heat, especially for seniors. Make sure to drink plenty of water even if you don’t feel thirsty. Carry a water bottle with you at all times when you’re outside and avoid sugary drinks like soda or energy drinks. Dehydration can quickly set in, making you feel dizzy or nauseous, and can lead to heat exhaustion.
  1. Seek Shade and Cool Off
    Lastly, if you start to feel overheated or uncomfortable in the sun, it’s important to seek shade and cool off. Find a shady spot under a tree or bring a parasol or umbrella with you. Take breaks regularly, go indoors to an air-conditioned room, or take a dip in the pool or ocean to cool off.

Sun safety is essential for seniors, and following these tips can help keep them safe and protected when enjoying the outdoors. Wearing sun-protective clothing, applying sunscreen, avoiding peak sun hours, staying hydrated, and seeking shade are all simple and easy ways to avoid harmful UV rays. Being proactive about sun safety can help seniors reduce their risk of skin damage and keep them healthy and happy all summer long.

Seniors deserve to have access to the greatest care possible. Learn more about PACE so you can improve the quality of your life.

WelbeHealth Continues Los Angeles Expansion With Opening of New PACE Centers in Rosemead and North Hollywood


Through the Medicare and Medi-Cal funded Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), WelbeHealth delivers fully integrated care that allows seniors to age in place

Both new locations are poised to meet the needs of an aging population across greater metro LA; thousands of residents local to the new centers are over 55 and eligible for PACE

See photos of the new spaces here

Today the physician-led senior health services provider WelbeHealth announced the opening of its Rosemead and North Hollywood locations. The new locations will increase access to care in underserved communities where thousands of lower-income older adults qualify for health care through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a national Medicare and Medicaid program that offers seniors access to comprehensive at-home and community-based services.

The expansion marks a greater Los Angeles metro area presence for WelbeHealth, which also operates centers in Long Beach and Pasadena. Both WelbeHealth Rosemead and WelbeHealth North Hollywood will offer spaces for medical and dental care, social recreation, physical and occupational therapy, personal care, meals and nutritional counseling. Transportation and in-home care are also delivered as part of WelbeHealth’s integrated services. 

Aligned with WelbeHealth’s commitment to holistic health, the new locations are thoughtfully designed contemporary spaces, inspiring an environment where participants can feel mentally rejuvenated while receiving high-quality medical care. Features like outdoor social spaces, hair salons and laundry rooms offer a respite from loneliness and limited access to personal care that many lower-income older adults experience. 

“Welbe’s purpose is to unlock the full potential of the most frail and vulnerable seniors through a model of clinical excellence, comprehensive social services and our courage to love culture, that values every one of our team members, our participants and their families. We see a huge need for services like this in the Rosemead and North Hollywood communities,” said Si France, MD, Founder and CEO at WelbeHealth. “We know that caring for this population has ripple effects throughout their families and their communities, and we’re honored to serve them.”

Both centers are currently enrolling new participants, with services set to begin on July 1.

Over 9,000 seniors are eligible for PACE within a 20-minute drive of the two centers. The surrounding populations are highly diverse, with over half of local seniors primarily speaking a non-English language including Spanish and Chinese. To meet the needs of its participants, WelbeHealth has employed multilingual staff members across many positions. Culturally appropriate meal menus, activities, and other services have been made available to best serve the needs of the local communities.

“California’s population is aging rapidly. We are expanding our presence in Southern California to meet the growing need for specially designed services that allow seniors to thrive in their communities while lowering costs compared to institutional care. Our mission to serve the most vulnerable seniors with better quality and compassion will lift the burden off family members and improve the lives of older adults,” said Vaneesh Soni, MD, Chief Growth Officer at WelbeHealth

In addition to the new North Hollywood and Rosemead centers, WelbeHealth operates programs across California, including in the cities of Modesto, Stockton, Pasadena, Long Beach and Fresno. 

About WelbeHealth

WelbeHealth is a physician-led public benefit company founded in 2015 that provides comprehensive healthcare services for seniors through a fully integrated program that includes all medical and dental care, physical and occupational therapy, transportation to medical appointments, meals and personal care services. WelbeHealth addresses social determinants of health to keep the most vulnerable seniors living safely in their own homes. Services are delivered through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a national Medicare and Medicaid program. 

For more information, please visit welbehealth.com.

Contact: Ryan Jackson, welbehealth@berlinrosen.com

WelbeHealth Announces New Chief Medical Officer and Chief Information Officer

Physician-led organization WelbeHealth, the California-based Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), announced two industry veterans as its newest executives: Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Michael Le, and Chief Information Officer, Bindu Purushothaman. Both will play a pivotal role as WelbeHealth expands its mission to serve the most vulnerable seniors with better quality and compassion.

“It is a momentous occasion to welcome a Chief Medical Officer and Chief Information Officer with such extensive experience who are also aligned with our mission and values,” said Matt Patterson, MD, President of WelbeHealth. “Dr. Le’s proven track record of improving the lives of complex seniors and Ms. Purushothaman’s significant experience transforming technology for healthcare organizations will have a lasting impact as WelbeHealth delivers excellent PACE services at scale.”

As Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Le will oversee WelbeHealth’s team of doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals, ensuring they are providing the highest standard of care, experience and quality. Dr. Le has over 20 years of experience in the medical profession, most recently as Chief Medical Officer of Optum Home and Community Care. Previously, Dr. Le co-founded and served as Chief Medical Officer of Landmark Health, where he pioneered a new care model that provided 24/7 physician-led, multidisciplinary house calls to frail seniors. Dr. Le also led value-based care at CareMore Health Plan and HealthCare Partners. 

“Revolutionizing how we care for the most vulnerable in our diverse communities is what inspires and motivates me,” said Dr. Michael Le. “I’m excited to bring better options and a new level of care to seniors as WelbeHealth’s clinical leader.”

As Chief Information Officer, Purushothaman will lead WelbeHealth’s technology development efforts, creating seamless tools that allow our team members to focus on caring for participants. Ms. Purushothaman’s most recent role was Chief Information Officer at Satellite Health following an impressive career as a technology leader in value-based care organizations including HealthCare Partners, Davita Medical Group and Optum.

“I am inspired by, and excited for, the journey ahead with WelbeHealth, an organization known for its dedication to providing compassionate all-inclusive care for seniors who need it most,” said Purushothaman. “The opportunity to work with an organization so deeply rooted in the community offers me the chance to not only do meaningful work but also better the lives of those around me.”

About WelbeHealth
WelbeHealth is a physician-led public benefit company founded in 2015 that provides comprehensive health care services for seniors through a fully integrated program that includes all medical and dental care, physical and occupational therapy, transportation to medical appointments, meals and personal care services. WelbeHealth addresses social determinants of health to keep the most vulnerable seniors living safely in their own homes. Services are delivered through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a national Medicare and Medicaid program. WelbeHealth operates programs across California, including the cities of Stockton, Modesto, Pasadena, Long Beach and Fresno.

For more information, please visit welbehealth.com.

Contact: Ryan Jackson, welbehealth@berlinrosen.com

Top 5 Ways to Care For Senior Mental Health

In the famous words of Isaac Newton, “A body in motion stays in motion.” As you age, it’s important to stay active to maintain your body’s ability to perform various activities throughout the day.

Did you know this principle also applies to your mind? There are many things you can do to support your mental health as you age.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’ve put together five of the best ways to care for senior mental health.

1. Eat Well

A healthy diet can help boost your mood and keep your body and mind feeling well. After all, around 20% of your daily calories go toward powering your brain, so it only makes sense that how you eat would impact your mental health!

Incorporate as many of the following into your daily diet as you can:

  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Legumes and nuts
  • Whole grains

Also, do your best to limit saturated fats and processed sugars.

2. Stick to a Sleep Schedule

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is one of the best ways to preserve your mental health as you age. Despite popular belief, even seniors need around eight hours of sleep every night!

To help you get restful sleep and cut the number of times you wake up throughout the evening, practice good sleep hygiene habits. Reduce as much noise and light in your sleeping space as you can, invest in a high-quality mattress and pillow, and put screens away before you get ready for bed.

3. Engage in Social Activities

Our relationships are at the core of our well-being. Having strong relationships can help you feel happier and even slow the progression of dementia and cardiovascular diseases.

Talking with close friends and family throughout the day can help you feel a sense of purpose and fill your days. If you can, set up in-person visits with your loved ones, as you’ll get a greater sense of connection than from texting or a phone call.

4. Incorporate Movement Into Your Day

Efforts to maintain your mental health can be greatly boosted by matching efforts to maintain your physical health. While you don’t have to push yourself to discomfort or pain, even moderate movement throughout the day can have lasting benefits for your mind, including stress relief and increased levels of energy throughout the day.

If you’re the kind of person who benefits from exercising in community, you have many options available to you. See if there’s a gym in your neighborhood that holds gentle yoga, stretching, or other classes accessible for seniors. If not, try your local library, or gather a group of friends yourself!

5. Exercise Your Mind

Finally, exercising your mind is just as important as exercising your body. Even a few minutes of brain teasers and word puzzles every day can go a long way toward maintaining the long-term health of your mind. Next time you hit a patch of boredom, consider picking up one of the following activities:

  • Jigsaw puzzles
  • Crossword puzzles
  • Brain teasers
  • Sudoku
  • Scrabble
  • Bingo
  • Solitaire

Caring for Senior Mental Health

By eating well, getting enough sleep, maintaining relationships, and prioritizing movement throughout the day, senior mental health can be preserved for years to come. Go grab a friend, a crossword puzzle, and your walking shoes, and get started today!

Here at WelbeHealth, our goal is to help seniors thrive. We do this by prioritizing human connections, pursuing resourceful solutions, and working toward a common purpose. Together, we want to help you gain access to live the life you deserve.

Want to find out if you qualify? Contact us today!