Tag Archive for: senior healthcare

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.

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.

WelbeHealth Announces New Chief Operating Officer

March 19, 2024

WelbeHealth, a physician-led senior health services provider, is proud to announce the appointment of Becca Miller Rose as its Chief Operating Officer. The new role underscores WelbeHealth’s commitment to quality and care excellence as it continues to grow its Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) with the expertise of industry-leading talent.

“Becca’s extensive experience leading operations of value-based community health services for seniors makes her uniquely qualified to advance WelbeHealth’s PACE program and mission of serving the most vulnerable seniors with better quality and compassion,” said Matt Patterson, M.D., President of WelbeHealth.”

As COO, Rose will partner with Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michael Le, who she previously worked with at Landmark Health, to lead WelbeHealth’s PACE operations, delivering community-based services across beautiful center locations and in the home and leveraging WelbeHealth’s proprietary tech-enabled care delivery processes. She will ensure consistent, high-quality care and service excellence as the organization expands access to seniors who need PACE.

Rose is a seasoned healthcare operations leader, most recently serving as COO of the Optum Home-Based Medical Care business. She joined Optum as part of its acquisition of Landmark Health, the nation’s largest provider of in-home value-based care. Rose oversaw tremendous growth in the organization’s scalable national service capacity for frail senior populations.

“Through my professional roles as well as personal experience serving hospice patients, I understand the needs of seniors and their family caregivers for higher quality community-based care,” said Becca Miller Rose. “I am excited to address these needs for our most vulnerable populations through expanding access to PACE as WelbeHealth’s operational leader.”

The PACE model consistently delivers exceptional health outcomes and cost-effectiveness through comprehensive health and supportive services for seniors. PACE has demonstrated a 24% reduction in hospitalizations, an 80% improvement in depression scores, and a one-third increase in life expectancy compared with nursing homes. Alongside these health advantages, PACE delivers cost savings to taxpayers amounting to $10,000 per participant annually.

WelbeHealth is expanding its footprint and ensuring that more seniors have access to the exceptional health outcomes and the cost-effectiveness that PACE provides. This commitment is evident in recent leadership appointments and the openings of new centers in San Jose, Rosemead, and North Hollywood.

About WelbeHealth

CONTACT: Katie Groenke, welbehealth@berlinrosen.com
Angharad Bhardwaj, Angharad.Bhardwaj@welbehealth.com

Mcknights Home Care – PACE expansion bill draws bipartisan support

March 19, 2024

A bipartisan group of senators introduced legislation that would improve care coordination for dual-eligible beneficiaries and expand the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly to a larger share of people.

“This legislation is a start at redesigning our current patchwork approach of delivering long-term services and supports,” Katie Smith Sloan, president and chief executive officer of LeadingAge, said in a statement Thursday. “This is a true win.”

Sens. Bill Cassidy, MD, (R-LA), Tom Carper (D-DE), John Cornyn (R-TX), Mark Warner (D-VA), Tim Scott (R-SC) and Bob Menendez (D-NJ) introduced the Delivering United Access to Lifesaving Services (DUALS) Act of 2024 on Thursday. Already, organizations including LeadingAge, the National PACE Association, Welbe Health and more than a dozen others have announced their endorsement for the bill.

The legislation’s primary function would be to require every state to develop a comprehensive, integrated health plan for dual-eligible beneficiaries, according to a summary. The bill also would require every state to allow PACE programs to be established, open up enrollment to any time in a given month, and extend PACE coverage to people under 55 years of age.

PACE centers serve mostly dual-eligible beneficiaries who qualify for skilled nursing care but are able to remain at home and in their community, a representative for WelbeHealth, a PACE provider, said in a statement to McKnight’s Home Care Daily Pulse.

“The DUALS Act marks a crucial stride forward in expanding access to care coordination for frail dual eligible beneficiaries through an innovative model called PACE,” Amy Shin, WelbeHealth’s chief mission officer, said. “This bill is thoughtful and represents a significant opportunity to enhance access to the gold standard for quality of care for our most frail and vulnerable seniors.”

Dual-eligible individuals, who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid, are responsible for a disproportionate share of government healthcare spending, according to the senators. Innovative, cost-effective care strategies can create payment efficiencies while also producing better patient outcomes, they said.

“Patients dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid have much worse outcomes than other groups even though there is a lot more money spent on their care,” Cassidy said in a statement. “Making Medicare and Medicaid better work together makes patients healthier and saves money.”

View the original article

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.

5 Heart Health Tips for Seniors

February 20, 2024

Keeping your heart healthy is super important, especially for grandparents and older friends. Here are five simple tips for seniors who want to keep their hearts strong and healthy.

1. Let’s Get Moving

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.

It’s really good for your heart when you move around. You don’t have to run really fast or lift heavy things—just walking around the block, dancing to your favorite songs, or playing catch can be perfect. Always chat with your doctor before you start something new, just to be safe.

Sometimes, moving around a lot can be hard. That’s okay! You can still exercise while sitting down. Moving your arms and legs, even while sitting, can keep the blood pumping and make your muscles strong without being too hard on your heart. If you don’t have any light weights, you can use cans or water bottles instead.

2. Foods for the Heart

A heart-healthy diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Eating too much butter, salt, and fat can contribute to heart disease. To reduce unhealthy fats, try cutting back on them and instead focus on including omega-3 fatty acids by eating fish like salmon or trout twice a week.

It’s also a good idea to pay attention to how much you eat—having just enough to feel full and happy is the way to go. Using a smaller plate, measuring cups, and portion control can help with this, so you can enjoy your food without eating too much.

When you go grocery shopping, be a detective and look at what’s in the food. Get into the habit of reading nutritional labels. Look for products that are low in sodium and free of trans fats, which can be very harmful to heart health.

3. Relax

Being stressed or worried all the time isn’t good for your heart. Chronic stress has been proven to negatively affect your heart health. Doing things like meditation, taking deep breaths, and yoga or tai chi can help you reduce your stress levels and produce calming effects.

Spending time with people you love makes you feel good and can actually be great for your heart. Joining clubs or engaging in community activities can also provide emotional support and help reduce stress.

4. Know Your Health Numbers

High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease, especially in seniors. Blood pressure is like a balloon inside your body—if there’s too much air, it’s not good, so regular monitoring is critical. Many pharmacies and stores offer free screenings, and home monitoring devices are also widely available.

Make sure to schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. These appointments are key opportunities to evaluate heart health, manage existing conditions, discuss concerns, and adjust treatments.

There are some health numbers like cholesterol, sugar level, and your weight that tell a lot about how your heart is doing. Keep an eye on these to make sure you’re on the right track.

5. Quit Smoking, Limit Drinking

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. It’s never too late to quit. There are a lot of resources available, from local support groups and phone lines to medications and therapies prescribed by your doctor.

If you enjoy having a drink, that’s fine—just make sure you don’t have too much. Set a limit and stick to it to keep your heart happy.

Keep it Up

Taking care of your heart doesn’t mean you have to change everything overnight. Just do small things every day that will add up to a big happy heart. So go ahead and be the boss of your heart health. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a wonderful life full of energy.

Remember—move around, eat tasty and healthy food, relax, check on your health, and stay away from smoking and too much alcohol. These five tips are your treasure map to a treasure chest of heart health and lots of joy in your golden years!

Ask your health professional before implementing any big changes.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

Understanding Thyroid Health for Seniors

January 19, 2024

Our thyroid health is a pivotal factor in our overall well-being. By following these tips and maintaining regular communication with your doctor, you can support a healthy thyroid even as you age.

Brain Fog After Quitting Drinking: What Can You Expect?

January 5, 2024

You may experience brain fog after quitting drinking. Learn more about what this means and what you can do by clicking here.