Tag Archive for: senior health care

Matt Patterson, MD: A Physician-Operator on “The Love Economy” and Authentic Leadership

October 4, 2024

At WelbeHealth, we’re committed to ensuring that every senior receives the compassionate care they deserve.

In a powerful discussion, our President, Dr. Matt Patterson, joins Dr. Reena Pande on her podcast to explore the concept of the “love economy” and how it drives our goal to deliver compassionate and high-quality care to vulnerable seniors daily.

During the conversation, Dr. Patterson reflects on his journey, sharing insights on how leading with love and empathy not only shapes WelbeHealth’s approach to senior care but also transforms the workplace culture. When employees feel seen, heard, and valued, they are inspired to extend that same compassion and dedication to the seniors we serve.

This love-first approach to leadership and care has allowed us to create a holistic, person-centered model that empowers vulnerable seniors to thrive independently. As Dr. Patterson and Dr. Pande highlight, it’s about creating an environment where both employees and participants feel supported, respected, and truly cared for.

Tune in to hear how the “love economy” influences our work at WelbeHealth and helps us build a healthier, more connected community for our seniors.

Understanding PACE: Program for Seniors

September 30, 2024

As we grow older, staying healthy and active becomes even more important. The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE, is here to help seniors live happy and healthy lives. Let’s explore what PACE is and how it can benefit you or your loved ones.

What is PACE?

PACE is a special program designed to help seniors who need extra care and support. It provides all the healthcare services you might need, all in one place. This includes doctor visits, medications, and even social activities.

How Does PACE Work?

PACE centers are located in communities and bring together many services, such as:

Medical care: Doctors, nurses, and specialists are available to help with health needs.
Therapy: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy to keep you moving and communicating.
Social activities: Fun events and outings to keep you connected and engaged.

Who is Eligible for PACE?

You might be eligible for PACE if you:

Are 55 years or older.
Live in an area with a PACE program.
Need a nursing home level of care but can live safely in the community with PACE’s help.

What Are the Benefits of PACE?

PACE offers many advantages to make life easier, such as:

Comprehensive care: All your healthcare needs met in one program.
Personalized attention: Care plans tailored to individual needs.
Community involvement: Opportunities to make friends and stay active.

What is Included in PACE?

PACE offers many services to make sure seniors get great care.While care is determined by your care plan, here is what is typically included:

Primary and Specialty Medical Care: Regular check-ups, specialist consultations, and ongoing health monitoring.
Home Care Services: Assistance with daily activities and personal care at your residence, as determined by your care plan.
Prescription Drugs: Coverage for medications essential for managing health conditions.
Adult Day Care: Access to day centers where seniors can receive care, meals, and engage in activities.
Dental, Vision, and Hearing Services: Comprehensive exams and treatment to support overall well-being.

Why Choose PACE?

Choosing PACE means choosing a program that values your well-being and independence. It helps you stay in your community and enjoy life with less worry about healthcare needs.

If you or someone you know could benefit from PACE, consider reaching out to a PACE program near you.

Interested in a free guide to PACE benefits, get yours today here.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

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. To see if you qualify, visit: welbehealth.com/contact

Stay Safe and Steady: Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors

September 27, 2024

Welcome to Healthy Aging Month! It’s a great time to focus on staying active, healthy, and safe as we grow older. One important way to do this is by preventing falls. Falls can be serious and lead to injuries, but the good news is that there are simple steps we can take to stay on our feet. Let’s explore some easy tips to help seniors prevent falls and stay steady.

Understanding Why Falls Happen

As we age, changes in our bodies can make us more likely to fall. Our muscles might not be as strong as they used to be, and our balance might not be as good. But don’t worry! By taking some precautions, we can reduce the risk of falling.

Exercises to Improve Balance and Strength

Exercise is a fantastic way to keep your body strong and steady. Here are a few simple exercises that can improve balance and strength:

Be sure to check with your primary care provider before implementing any new exercises.

1. Toe and Heel Raises

How to do it: Stand behind a chair and hold onto it for support. Lift your heels off the ground so you’re standing on your tiptoes. Hold for a few seconds, then lower your heels back down. Now try lifting your toes, keeping your heels on the floor.
Benefits: This exercise strengthens your calf muscles and improves balance.

2. Single-Leg Stands

How to do it: Hold onto a sturdy surface, like a counter or table. Lift one foot off the ground and balance on the other foot. Try to hold for 10 seconds, then switch legs.
Benefits: Helps improve balance and strengthens leg muscles.

3. Sit-to-Stand

How to do it: Sit in a sturdy chair. Cross your arms over your chest. Stand up slowly, then sit back down. Repeat several times.
Benefits: This exercise strengthens your legs and improves your balance.

Keeping Your Home Safe

Making your home safer can also help prevent falls. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Clear the Clutter

Tip: Keep floors clear of items like shoes, books, and other objects.
Why it helps: Reduces the chances of tripping over things.

2. Brighten Up

Tip: Ensure rooms and hallways are well-lit. Use nightlights in the bedroom and bathroom.
Why it helps: Good lighting helps you see better and avoid obstacles.

3. Rug Safety

Tip: Use non-slip mats under rugs or remove them altogether.
Why it helps: Prevents slipping on loose or uneven rugs.

4. Grab Bars and Handrails

Tip: Install grab bars in the bathroom and handrails on both sides of stairways.
Why it helps: Provides support and stability where falls are more likely to occur.

Regular Health Check-Ups

Seeing your doctor regularly is important for staying healthy and preventing falls. Here’s why:

Check Vision and Hearing: Poor vision or hearing can increase the risk of falls. Make sure to have regular eye and ear check-ups.
Review Medications: Some medicines can make you dizzy or sleepy. Talk to your doctor about your medications and side effects.
Manage Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes or arthritis can affect balance. Proper management can reduce fall risk.

Tips for Staying Active and Safe

Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with non-slip soles and good support.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dizziness.
Use Assistive Devices: Don’t hesitate to use canes or walkers if needed. They can provide extra stability.
Take Your Time: Move slowly when changing positions, like standing up from a chair or getting out of bed.
Stay Social: Join a local exercise class or walking group. Staying active with others can be encouraging and fun.

Embrace Healthy Aging

Healthy Aging Month is the perfect time to start thinking about how to stay active and safe. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you’ll be taking important steps to reduce the risk of falls and enjoy life to the fullest. Remember, staying strong and steady is key to aging gracefully. So keep moving, stay safe, and enjoy the journey of healthy aging!

It’s your life. Live it your way.

Stay Strong and Eat Well: Your Guide to Healthy Aging

September 19, 2024

It is Healthy Aging Month! This special time is about finding simple ways to stay active and eat nutritious foods so we can feel our best as we get older. Just like a car needs good fuel and regular tune-ups to run smoothly, our bodies need the right care to keep us healthy and happy. Let’s explore how you can make small changes for a big impact on your health.

The Magic of Exercise

Exercise is like a superpower for our bodies! It helps us stay strong, makes us feel happier, and keeps our hearts healthy. You don’t have to run a marathon to get the benefits of exercise. Here are some fun and easy ways to stay active:

Walking

Walking is a fantastic way to stay fit. It’s free, you can do it anywhere, and it’s easy on your joints. Try taking a walk around your neighborhood or find a local park. Invite a friend or family member for company. Walking not only helps your body but also gives you a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Dancing

Who doesn’t love a good dance party? Dancing to your favorite tunes is a fun way to move your body. Whether you’re boogieing in your living room or taking a dance class, it’s a great workout that doesn’t feel like exercise at all!

Stretching

Stretching is important to keep our bodies flexible and ready for action. Try simple stretches every morning to wake up your muscles. Imagine you’re a cat doing a big stretch after a long nap—doesn’t that feel great?

Eating Right for a Strong Body

Just like exercise, eating the right foods is essential to staying healthy. Let’s break down what your body needs to stay strong:

Fruits and Veggies

Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals that help our bodies fight off sickness. Eating a variety of colors, like red apples, green spinach, and orange carrots, ensures you get all the nutrients you need. A tasty way to enjoy more fruits and veggies is by making a colorful salad or a smoothie.

Whole Grains

Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and whole-wheat bread provide energy to keep us active throughout the day. They are full of fiber, which helps our digestion and keeps us feeling full longer. Try swapping white bread for whole-grain bread in your sandwiches for a healthy boost.

Proteins

Proteins are like the building blocks for our muscles. Foods such as chicken, beans, and nuts help us grow strong and stay energized. Including a source of protein in every meal can help maintain muscle mass as we age.

Tips to Get Started

Set Small Goals: Start with simple goals, like walking for 10 minutes a day. Slowly increase the time as you feel more comfortable.
Try New Foods: Every week, experiment with a new fruit or vegetable. You might find a new favorite food!
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial. Keep a water bottle handy to remind yourself to take sips throughout the day.
Join a Group: Find a local exercise class or cooking club. Being part of a group can be motivating and make activities more fun.
Make It Fun: Choose activities you enjoy. Whether it’s playing a sport, dancing, or gardening, when you have fun, it doesn’t feel like work!

Healthy Aging Month is the perfect time to start taking steps towards a healthier lifestyle. Remember, small changes can lead to big differences in how we feel. By staying active and eating well, you’ll be on your way to enjoying life to the fullest. So, grab a friend and start your healthy aging journey today!

It’s your life. Live it your way

Did you know meals and nutritional counseling are part of the benefits you can receive with WelbeHealth? 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. To see if you qualify, visit: welbehealth.com/contact

How to Support a Loved One After a Stroke

August 29, 2024

Experiencing a stroke can be scary for both the person who has had one and their family. If your loved one has had a stroke, you might feel unsure about how to help. This guide will give you simple ways to support them during this time.

1. Be Patient and Understanding

Your loved one may have trouble speaking or moving.
Give them time to do things at their own pace.
Listen to them and show that you care.

2. Help with Daily Activities

Offer to help with tasks like cooking, cleaning, or shopping.
Encourage them to do what they can on their own.
Be there to lend a hand when they need it.

3. Encourage Exercise and Healthy Eating

Take walks together, even if they are short.
Help prepare meals that are good for the heart, like fruits and vegetables.
Drink plenty of water and avoid salty or fatty foods.

4. Be There for Emotional Support

Talk to your loved one about how they feel.
Remind them that it’s okay to feel sad or frustrated.
Share happy memories to boost their mood.

5. Attend Doctor Visits Together

Go with them to appointments to understand their needs.
Ask the doctor questions if you don’t understand something.
Help them follow the doctor’s advice, like taking medicine.

6. Encourage Social Activities

Invite friends and family to visit.
Plan simple outings, like a picnic in the park.
Keep them involved in community events or groups.

7. Learn More About Stroke Recovery

Read books or articles about strokes and recovery.
Ask health professionals for advice and information.
Stay informed so you can offer the best support possible.

Supporting a loved one after a stroke might feel challenging, but your care can make a big difference. By being patient, helping with daily activities, and offering emotional support, you can help your loved one feel better and stronger every day. Remember, it’s a journey, and you are an important part of it.

It’s your life. Live it your way

WelbeHealth Hosts Open House to Celebrate One-Year Anniversary

August 26, 2024

Health provider helps meet the needs of low-income seniors in the valley | August 21, 2024

WelbeHealth, one of California’s leading health providers for low-income seniors through the Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), invited community members to an open house on Aug. 7 celebrating their one-year anniversary of expanding services to the underserved metro area of North Hollywood.

Seniors and their families had an opportunity to learn about the comprehensive services available to help seniors age comfortably at home instead of a nursing home. Attendees met the WelbeHealth team, connected with other seniors in the community and toured the facility.

Dr. Danielle Basurco, associate medical director for WelbeHealth, and WelbeHealth clients presented a brief program, addressing the health provider’s programs and benefits for older adults. Additionally, the open house offered Medi-Cal application assistance, blood pressure screenings, housing education, other valuable resources and raffle prizes.

The WelbeHealth in North Hollywood center features a cafeteria, spaces for recreational and social activities, common areas with beautiful decor, and traditional medical spaces for primary care services, dental care and physical therapy.

California has the highest number of adults ages 65 and older in the country and has one of the nation’s highest rates of senior poverty. PACE organizations like WelbeHealth play a crucial role in providing comprehensive and affordable programs for older adults with complex health needs who want to age at home at little or no cost to them.

WelbeHealth North Hollywood is located at 11633 Victory Blvd., Suite 100 in North Hollywood

To read the original article, please click here.

WelbeHealth Hosts Community Open House in Celebration of its One Year Anniversary Of Meeting the Needs of the Valley’s Most Vulnerable Seniors

August 9, 2024

WelbeHealth North Hollywood: One Year Anniversary and Community Open House

August 9, 2024

Senior Care Planning

July 29, 2024

Senior care planning is important to make sure you have a comfortable and secure future. Find out how to get ready for senior care with important information and simple tips to help you through the planning process.

Care Planning and Safety

There are many different kinds of care to choose from, including assisted living centers and nursing homes. Choosing a program like Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) or home care services allow you to stay in the comfort of your home longer and is an alternative to assisted living or nursing homes. It’s important to research these options and think about things such as location, features, and cost when making a decision. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – this will help you determine which one best suits your needs.

Various care types:

Care Facilities
Assisted Living Centers
Nursing Homes
Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)
Home Care Services

Safety Measures at Home

If you plan on staying in your own home, it’s important to make sure that it is safe for you to live in. This may include:

Installing handrails for stability
Removing trip hazards
Medical alert systems in case of accidents or falls.
Organizing your space

Financial Security

Another important part of planning for senior care is to make sure your financial secure. This includes thinking about how you will pay for any care in the future, as well as making sure that any assets or property are managed correctly. Here are some tips on how to plan financially for senior care:

Insurance: make sure you have the right insurance coverage, including health insurance and long-term care insurance.
Retirement Savings: consider setting aside a portion of your retirement savings specifically for senior care expenses.
Estate Planning: work with a lawyer to create an estate plan that outlines how your assets will be managed in case of emergency.
Government Benefits: research and apply for any government benefits that may help cover the cost of senior care, such as Medicare, Medi-Cal or Medicaid.

Social Connections and Mental Health

Along with physical and financial, it’s also important to think about your emotional well-being and social connections as you age. This may include staying active through hobbies or joining senior groups, maintaining relationships with family and friends, and seeking support from counselors or therapists if needed.

Community Engagement Programs – Stay Active and Connected with Peers
Counseling Services
Family Caregiver Support Groups
Resources for Caregivers to Share Experiences and Seek Guidance

Steps to Effective Senior Care Planning

Looking at Current Needs and Preferences

Before making decisions, look at your current health, housing, and care preferences. Understanding your needs helps in choosing the right care options.

Research Different Care Options

Explore assisted living facilities, in-home care agencies, Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), and retirement communities. Consider location, services, and costs to find the best fit for your needs.

Create a Detailed Care Plan

Develop a detailed care plan with preferences for medical care, daily assistance, and long-term arrangements. Include details about your healthcare proxy and preferred providers.

Discuss Your Plan with Loved Ones

Share your care plan with family or friends to make sure they support your wishes. Open communication is important for receiving personalized care.

Review and Update Your Plan Regularly

As care needs evolve, review and update your plan regularly. Stay informed about changes in health, finances, and preferences to change your plan as needed.

Planning ahead for senior care is very important for having a happy and safe experience as we age. By knowing what you need, looking into different care options, and talking openly with your family, you can make a good plan that focuses on your health and happiness. It’s also important to be flexible and willing to change your plan when needed. With the right support and preparation, you can look forward to a comfortable future with caring people around you.

It’s your life. Live it your way

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.