Tag Archive for: senior health care

Tips to Stay Hydrated

July 19, 2024

Staying hydrated is important for overall health, especially as we age. Older adults can benefit from tips to make sure they drink enough water daily. Here are some simple ways to help seniors maintain proper hydration levels:

Importance of Hydration

Proper hydration is important for seniors to maintain good health and well-being. Dehydration can lead to many health issues, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), confusion, and even a trip to the hospital. By following these hydration tips, seniors can feel their best and stay healthy.

Features of Proper Hydration

Increased Energy: Staying hydrated helps boost energy levels and fight being tired.
Better Brain Activity: Proper hydration supports cognitive function and mental clarity.
Improved Digestion: Drinking enough water helps with digestion and stops constipation.

Benefits of Staying Hydrated

Healthy Skin: Drinking enough water helps keep skin soft and might reduce dryness and wrinkles.
Keeps Your Body Cool: Water helps keep your body cool, especially when it’s hot outside.
Joint Health: Drinking water helps keep your joints smooth and can make them hurt less.

Practical Hydration Tips for Seniors

1. Drink Throughout the Day

Aim to drink small amounts of water consistently throughout the day.
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on the go.
Set reminders or establish a routine for drinking water regularly.

2. Check Your Urine Color

Look at the color of your pee to see if you’re drinking enough water. Light yellow to almost clear means you’re well-hydrated.
Dark yellow pee might mean you’re dehydrated and need to drink more water.

3. Include Hydrating Foods

Eats fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges.
Enjoy soups, broths, and hydrating snacks like yogurt or Jell-O.

4. Limit Dehydrating Beverages

Drink less soda and sugary drinks because they can make you thirsty.
Choose water, herbal teas, or watered-down fruit juices instead.

5. Be Mindful of Medications

Some medications may increase the risk of dehydration. Talk to a healthcare provider about changing the amount of fluid you drink.
Monitor any medication side effects that impact hydration levels.

By following these easy and helpful tips, seniors can make sure they drink enough water and enjoy the many benefits it brings. Remember, staying hydrated is important for staying healthy and feeling good at any age.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

Explore our Coachella Valley WelbeHealth Center & Meet Some of our First PACE Participants. C/O KESQ

July 18, 2024

To learn more about our center, visit our location page – Coachella Valley

New WelbeHealth Center Offers Comprehensive Services for Seniors in Coachella Valley

July 16, 2024

New Welbe Health Center Offers Comprehensive Services for Seniors in Coachella Valley

WelbeHealth Continues California Expansion with Opening of New PACE Centers in Riverside and Coachella Valley

July 15, 2024

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 gracefully in place

Today, the physician-led senior health services provider WelbeHealth announced the opening of its Coachella Valley and Riverside locations. The Coachella Valley location, situated in La Quinta, is the first ever Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in the region, with no other PACE center within 70 miles in any direction. The new locations will increase access to care in underserved communities where thousands of lower-income older adults qualify for health care through PACE, a national Medicare and Medicaid program that offers seniors access to comprehensive at-home and community-based services.

In addition to the new Riverside and Coachella Valley centers, WelbeHealth operates programs in the cities of Modesto, Stockton, San Jose, Fresno, Pasadena, North Hollywood, Rosemead and Long Beach. All locations deliver fully integrated care, allowing frail seniors to age in place with the support of interdisciplinary teams, including doctors and nurses, physical therapists, home care aides, and social workers. Wrap-around support like meals, social activities, and transportation address social determinants of health.

“WelbeHealth’s mission is to serve the most vulnerable seniors with better quality and compassion. We do this through the work of our dedicated care teams and our courage to love culture that values every employee and participant in our care,” said Si France, MD, Founder and CEO at WelbeHealth. “We are honored to serve Riverside and the Coachella Valley, enabling access to care that will have ripple effects in these communities.”

Services began on July 1 and both centers are currently enrolling new participants. *Over 12,000 PACE-eligible seniors reside within the combined service area of the two centers, and this number is anticipated to increase. The California Department of Aging forecasts Riverside County’s senior population to surge by almost 250% by 2060, representing the fastest growing 60+ population in California.

“The growth of the aging population in Riverside County, where both new centers are located, highlights the need for more cost-effective options that enable seniors to thrive in their home and communities,” said Vaneesh Soni, MD, Chief Growth Officer at WelbeHealth. “By expanding access to PACE in areas like Riverside and providing PACE services for the first time in areas like Coachella Valley, WelbeHealth is working to meet the growing needs of California’s seniors.”

PACE is a proven, high-quality, cost-effective solution to address the care gaps left by the underfunded and patchwork system for long-term care across California and the United States by delivering comprehensive health and supportive services for seniors.

“WelbeHealth’s new PACE center in the Coachella Valley marks an important milestone” said La Quinta Mayor Linda Evans. “Having spent over 35 years working in the healthcare industry with the goal of ensuring access to care, I am proud to support WelbeHealth in bringing PACE services to vulnerable older adults and their families in our community.”

PACE median survival is higher compared with nursing homes and waiver programs despite caring for a frailer population. Importantly, in addition to better outcomes, PACE saves taxpayers $10,000 per participant each year.

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.

For more information, please visit welbehealth.com.

*12,000 PACE -eligible seniors based on WelbeHealth’s analysis of U.S. Census data

Crafts for Boosting Brain Exercises in Seniors with Alzheimer’s

June 28, 2024

Crafting can be a powerful tool for increasing cognitive function and helping overall well-being, especially for seniors living with Alzheimer’s. Doing creative activities not only excites the brain but also makes it feel accomplished and full of joy. Let’s explore a couple of simple yet exciting crafts to boost brain exercises for older adults with Alzheimer’s.

Memory Collage: Creating Happy Memories

Creating a memory collage is a wonderful way to revisit joyful moments and help your brain remember past events. By adding personal photos, mementos, and labels, individuals can create a visual of happy memories, making your brain think back which stimulates cognitive function.

Features:

Adding personal touches with special items
Seeing and touching activities
Helps you remember things

Benefits:

Stimulates cognitive function
Promotes positive feelings
Helps people remember things better

Sensory Bottles: Exploring Touch and Feel

Crafting sensory bottles filled with different items like beads, buttons, or rice provides a feeling when touching that can be both soothing and exciting. These bottles let you explore and play with different textures and movements.

Features:

Touch
Exploring with senses
Helping you feel calm

Benefits:

Helps you process what you see, hear, and feel better
Increases focus and concentration
Helps you relax and feel less stressed

Painting and Coloring: Releasing Creativity and Focus

Painting or coloring helps you be creative and improve fine motor skills. It’s also a relaxing way to express yourself. By making art, you can improve focus, concentration, and show your feelings.

Features:

Being creative
Building small motor skills
Fun and relaxing activity

Benefits:

Boosts creativity and imagination
Improves fine motor skills
Increases focus and concentration

Crafting offers a lot of different benefits beyond just making beautiful pieces. It can help people with Alzheimer’s by giving them mental stimulation, emotional happiness, and social interaction. Crafting activities like exploring different textures, making art, or remembering things can improve their brain health and make them feel better overall.

Remember, the journey of crafting is not about the end product but the process itself—the joy of making things, using your senses, and connecting to your inner creativity. So, grab your crafting supplies, unleash your imagination and start a creative journey that makes your brain stronger, warms your heart, and fills you with happiness.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

Online Safety for Seniors: Protect Yourself from Scams and Online Threats

June 20, 2024

In today’s digital world, seniors are more connected than ever before, but with this comes the risk of online scams and threats. It’s important for older adults to know common ways they are targeted by scammers so they can protect their information.

The Importance of Online Awareness

Staying informed about possible online dangers is important for online safely. By understanding how scammers work, older adults can protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to fraud and schemes.

Features and Benefits of Online Safety Awareness

Increased Security: Being aware of common online scams helps your ability to see and avoid potential threats, keeping your personal information secure.
Peace of Mind: By prepared with knowledge about online safety, you can browse the internet with confidence and peace of mind, knowing you are protected.
Empowerment: Understanding common online scams helps you control your online profile and make informed decisions when being online.

Common Online Scams Targeting Seniors

Seniors are often targeted by scammers because they feel that they are more likely to fall for their tricks. It is really important to recognize and avoid common online scams. Here are some common scams to watch out for:

Phishing Emails: Scammers send emails pretending to be from companies you know or interact with, asking you to click on bad links or provide personal information.
Tech Support Scams: Fraudsters act like tech support representatives, claiming your computer has a virus and requesting remote access or payment for fake services.
Romance Scams: Criminals develop online relationships with seniors to manipulate them emotionally and financially, often requesting money or gifts.
Lottery or Sweepstakes Scams: Scammers inform seniors they’ve won a lottery or sweepstake, asking for payment or personal details to claim the prize.
Fake Charities: Fraudulent charities target seniors with heart-wrenching stories, soliciting donations that never reach those in need.

Tips for Protecting Yourself Online

Protect yourself against online scams and fraud, by following these common tips:

Verify Sender Information: Be very careful of emails you did not begin and verify the sender’s identity before clicking any links.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Do not share sensitive information online unless you fully trust the source.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest online scams and learn about how to recognize and report fraudulent activity.
Use Strong Passwords: Create difficult passwords for your online accounts and turn on two-factor authentication whenever possible.
Seek Assistance: Be sure to ask for help from trusted family members or friends if you come across suspicious online behavior.

By staying aware of online dangers and being informed, seniors can enjoy the benefits of the internet while lowering the risks associated with online threats. Remember, knowledge is your best defense against cybercrime.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

What’s the Average Cost of a Wheelchair?

June 13, 2024

We all know that at some point, we might need a little help getting around. That’s where a wheelchair comes in handy. But you might be wondering, “What’s the average cost of a wheelchair?” Let’s explore this important question together.

First things first, the cost of a wheelchair is different for everyone. It can vary quite a bit depending on what you need.

For instance, a simple manual wheelchair, often made of lightweight materials like aluminum, can typically cost between $100 and $500. These are perfect for those of us who can still push ourselves or have a caregiver who can help. They come with handy features like adjustable footrests and armrests.

If you need a wheelchair with a few more bells and whistles, the cost will be higher. Think special seats or custom modifications. These types of wheelchairs can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more and are typically recommended for those with specific medical or mobility needs.

Then there are electric wheelchairs, powered by batteries and controlled with a joystick or other system. These wheelchairs can start at around $1,500 and can go up to $5,000 or more for top-of-the-line models.

Remember though, these prices are just an estimate. The true cost can change depending on where you buy the wheelchair, what insurance coverage you have, and any discounts the seller might offer.

And don’t forget about the ongoing costs. Buying a wheelchair is like buying a car, it needs regular maintenance and sometimes repairs. Always ask about any warranties or service plans that can help with these costs.

Here’s some good news! Most wheelchairs qualify as durable medical equipment. That means if you have Medicare, you could save quite a bit of money. And even if you don’t have Medicare, many companies can work out a payment plan with you.

So, how much does a wheelchair cost? The answer varies widely depending on your specific needs, but we hope this provides a helpful starting point. Remember, Medicare can assist in alleviating some of the financial burden. Ultimately, the best wheelchair for you will depend on your personal needs, lifestyle, and budget. Consulting with a healthcare professional can guide you in making an informed decision to find a wheelchair that enhances your mobility and quality of life.

Here at WelbeHealth, we’re committed to helping seniors live their best life. We offer comprehensive services, from in-home care to prescription delivery and much more.

Ready to see if you qualify for our services at no extra cost? Just give us a call. We’re here for you.

Exercise Tips for Arthritis Relief in Seniors

May 23, 2024

Arthritis can cause achy joints, especially as we get older. But did you know that doing exercises can actually help with the pain? Discover easy exercises for arthritis relief in seniors that can make your body stronger and lessen arthritis pain. These exercises are gentle and aimed at keeping you healthy and happy.

Why Exercise Matters for Arthritis Relief

Stay Limber: Exercises can help you move your joints more freely, making everyday tasks easier and reduce stiffness.
Build Strength: Strengthening your muscles can improve your balance and stability, lowering the risk of falls.
Pain Relief: Exercise triggers the release of natural painkillers in your body that might help with arthritis pain.

Enjoyable Exercises for Arthritis Management

1. Walking or Swimming

Both walking and swimming are low-impact activities that help reduce joint stress while increasing cardiovascular fitness, which help with arthritis.
- Take easy walks or swim in a pool to exercise without straining your joints.

2. Light Resistance Training

Use light weights or resistance bands to enhance muscle strength without stressing your joints.
Focus on exercises targeting various muscle groups to support joint function and mobility.

3. Gentle Stretching Routine

Stretching exercises can improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness in arthritic areas.
Include stretches for your arms, legs, back, and neck to maintain flexibility and prevent further joint issues.

Getting Started with Exercise

Start Slowly: Begin with short sessions of 10-15 minutes and slowly increase the time as you feel more comfortable.
Listen to Your Body: If you experience pain during an exercise, stop and talk to a healthcare provider. It’s important to exercise within your limits.
Consistency is Key: Try to do a mix of aerobic, strength, and flexibility exercises regularly to get the benefits of physical activity.

For additional guidance on creating an exercise plan made to your needs, think about consulting with a healthcare professional or a provider specializing in senior care.

Remember, senior arthritis exercise can significantly improve your symptoms and overall quality of life. With the right approach and commitment, you can lead a fulfilling and active lifestyle despite arthritis challenges.

Discover exceptional senior care with WelbeHealth! Our comprehensive resources and tailored services, including the innovative PACE program, are designed to support older adults in maintaining their well-being. Explore how we can help today!

Stroke Awareness

May 8, 2024

Strokes are one of the leading causes of disability and even death among seniors. Recognizing the signs early can decrease the risk of severe long-term effects and can help save a life. The following tips can help seniors in their community and their caregivers identify the common signs and symptoms of a stroke and what steps to follow when a stroke is suspected.

Understanding Strokes

A stroke occurs when there’s a blockage or a rupture in an artery leading to the brain. This pause in blood flow takes away the oxygen from the brain cells, causing them to die. The effects of a stroke depend on the area of the brain that’s affected; hence immediate medical intervention is critical to minimize brain damage.

The Common Signs of a Stroke

Remember the acronym B.E.F.A.S.T., as it outlines the major signs of a stroke:

Balance: Watch for a sudden loss of balance or coordination, which might indicate a stroke.
Eyes: Check for sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, including blurred or double vision, which could be signs of a stroke.
Face Drooping: One side of the face may droop or be numb. Ask the person to smile. Is the smile uneven or lopsided?
Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm move downward?
Speech Difficulty: Is speech slurred, are they not able to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
Time to call 9-1-1: If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get them to the hospital immediately.

It’s important to note the time when the first symptoms appeared. Some treatment options are most effective when given soon after a stroke begins.

What To Do If You Suspect a Stroke

Call Emergency Services: Don’t hesitate to call for emergency medical assistance if you or someone you know shows any of the symptoms mentioned above.
Check the Time: Note the time when the first symptoms appeared. Emergency medical personnel will need this information.
Do Not Drive: Do not attempt to drive to the hospital. Wait for emergency personnel. They can begin life-saving treatment on the way to the emergency room.
Follow Up With Care: After emergency treatment, follow-up care is essential to help with recovery and to manage any underlying conditions that contributed to the stroke.

Prevention: Reducing Your Risk of Stroke

While some risk factors for stroke can’t be controlled, such as age and family history, there are still many ways seniors can lower their risk:

Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Stay physically active.
Control high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance on medication management and healthy living.

Strokes can be sudden and frightening, but knowing how to recognize the signs and respond quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome. By learning and being ready, older adults can keep themselves and their loved ones safer from the possibly very bad effects of strokes. Remember, every second counts, so act F.A.S.T.

We hope this guide helps guide you into recognizing and responding to strokes. If you found this post helpful, please consider sharing it with friends and family. Together, we can raise awareness and save lives.

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. Here you are supported by a dedicated team that coordinates all your care needs. With access to highly skilled doctors, dentists, home care, physical therapy and much more, you are able to live a healthier, happier you. To learn if you qualify, visit our contact page or, call us directly at (888) 530-4415 | TTY 711.

Alcohol Awareness for Seniors: What You Need to Know

April 30, 2024

As we age, we often find ourselves looking back on the choices we make when it comes to our health and wellbeing. The role of alcohol in our lives deserves a closer look, especially for seniors. The effects of alcohol can change as we age, and awareness about these changes is important for keeping a healthy lifestyle. Our goal is to shed light on alcohol awareness for seniors, insight, practical tips, and resources for making better decisions about alcohol use.

Understanding the Impact of Alcohol as We Age

As we get older, our bodies handle alcohol differently. Older adults might feel the effects of alcohol more because their bodies process it slower and they have less water in their bodies for the alcohol to spread out in. This means that even if they drink the same amount of alcohol as they did when they were younger, it can affect them more. This can raise the chances of falling down, having trouble remembering things, and causing problems with medications.

Risks of Alcohol Consumption in Seniors

1. Medication Interactions:

Many seniors are on one or more prescription medications. Alcohol can interact dangerously with medications, including but not limited to blood thinners, antidepressants, and even some over-the-counter pain relievers and allergy medicines. Mixing alcohol can lead to problems with the heart, liver, and the effectiveness of medications.

2. Chronic Conditions:

Alcohol can increase chronic conditions that are common in seniors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. It’s important to understand how alcohol can affect these conditions and manage its use.

3. Cognitive Function:

There is evidence to suggest that excessive drinking can increase cognitive decline in older adults. Keeping alcohol consumption in check can help maintain cognitive health and reduce the risk of developing dementia-related conditions.

Tips for Safe Alcohol Consumption

1. Know Your Limits:

It’s important for seniors to reconsider their limits with alcohol and change them if necessary. This might mean drinking less than what was thought to the average.

2. Check Medication Labels:

Always read medication labels and consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about possible interactions with alcohol.

3. Stay Hydrated:

Drinking water between alcoholic beverages can help manage the effects of alcohol and keep you hydrated.

4. Eat Beforehand:

Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach can increase its effects. Make sure to eat a healthy meal before drinking.

5. Socialize Safely:

Enjoy alcoholic beverages in social settings where support is available if needed. Drinking alone can increase the risk of falls or other accidents without immediate help available.

Resources for Support

If you or someone you know needs help managing alcohol consumption, there are numerous resources available:

Alcoholics Anonymous for Seniors: Offers meetings and support catered to older adults.
National Institute on Aging: Provides educational materials on alcohol and aging.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Offers a national helpline for those seeking help with substance use disorders.

Final Thoughts

Awareness is the first step toward making healthier choices about drinking alcohol, especially in our senior years. By understanding the changes that come with age, paying close attention to interactions with medications and health conditions, and following easy tips for moderation, seniors can enjoy a happier, healthier life with or without alcohol. Remember, it’s never too late to start making positive changes to your lifestyle.