Looking for a dependable and rewarding job where you can help others? Home health care jobs have grown during the pandemic as people who need care seek to stay safe at home.
Nursing homes are not the only option when your loved one needs nursing and personal care. Home care is the safer nursing home alternative.
Belvedere Home Care staff are on the front lines of the pandemic response -- at patient homes -- every day. For some, it's a whole-family affair.
Feb. 22, 2020 - Most seniors would prefer to remain independent and in their own homes as long as possible. National Senior Independence Month is an opportunity to examine the challenges presented when aging in place, and ways that seniors can live the way they want to live. There are a few simple steps that can make it easier for seniors to stay safely in their own homes and independent.
Feb.11, 2020 - Coronavirus is in the news every day. As it spreads, it’s important to raise awareness of symptoms, risks and how to help prevent infection.
February is American Heart Month, dedicated to the awareness, prevention and treatment of heart disease. About 610,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every year, equaling about one in every four deaths. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. And every year, about 735,000 Americans have a heart attack.
January 27, 2020 - Seniors may be told to keep up with physical therapy, occupational therapy or other rehabilitative therapies at home, but for some seniors, it is difficult to stay motivated or to perform therapeutic activities correctly without assistance.
January 10, 2020 - If you have a senior loved one, it may be time to look at the state of their health and assess any changes that have taken place over the last year. Then look forward to the years ahead.
December 17, 2019 - Less sugar, less salt and less fat may mean fewer familiar options at the traditional holiday table. But for people on restricted diets, even a few days of splurges can have serious health consequences. So how can the holidays still be fun and delicious with dietary restrictions?
December 10, 2019 - If you're visiting senior loved ones over the holidays, you may be unprepared for the changes in their health and mobility. Some changes are to be expected as a normal part of aging. But some changes should trigger concern.
Nov. 26, 2019 - For most of us, the holidays are the busiest time of the year. We could all use a few extra hours to shop, wrap, cook and clean – not to mention the kids’ concerts, office parties and overnight holiday travel. This time of year is an opportunity to take advantage of respite care with Home Care Companion services from Belvedere Home Care.
November 19, 2019 - Belvedere Health Services President John McCooey talks about Belvedere Home Care services, philosophy and what makes our home health care unique.
November 12, 2019 - Being a long-distance caregiver may not have the day-to-day demands that local caregivers face, but those who want to contribute to care from a distance face a unique set of challenges. Here are some ideas to help long-distance caregivers become an engaged, involved part of the caregiving team.
Nov. 5, 2019 - There are many financial topics that should be addressed with parents or other senior loved ones, not limited to long-term care expenses, managing household expenses, avoiding scams and whether or not their estate is in order.
Oct. 25, 2019 - Transportation is one of the most common supports provided to seniors by family caregivers. But while many seniors depend on family and friends for rides to medical appointments, they may feel guilty about "nonessential" trips, such as to socialize or enjoy recreation.
Oct. 19, 2019 - Winter is just around the corner! Seniors, especially, need help in making sure that their homes are warm, their sidewalks are clear and their space heaters have space.
Oct. 10, 2019 - People with life-limiting illnesses want each moment to matter. Belvedere Home Care wants people with life-limiting illnesses to remain comfortable and independent as long as they choose. We provide assistance with light housekeeping and help with personal care, such as bathing, dressing and getting to medical appointments.
Oct. 7, 2019 - October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to learn about the symptoms, risks and treatment of this all-too-common disease and how it can affect seniors. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among American women. Most breast cancers are found in women 50 years old or older.
Sept. 18, 2019 - Everyone who is able should get a seasonal flu (influenza) vaccine every year. This includes seniors. Over 60 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations occur in people 65 years and older.
Sept. 12, 2019 - Men have a perhaps undeserved reputation for being reluctant to go to the doctor or seek medical care. But as men age, it’s important to closely monitor health to prevent or slow the progression of common chronic diseases.
August 26, 2019 - Women may on average live longer than men, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are healthier. Senior women are at greater risk than men for many conditions and are affected differently by many diseases that impact both sexes.
August 18, 2019 - If your senior loved one has round-the-clock medical needs, it may be time to consider 24-hour care. Here are some signs that your family could benefit from 24-hour home care services.
August 12, 2019 - Getting out of the house is important for a senior's physical and mental health, but sometimes seniors face many challenges when it comes to "running errands." Here are some tips for making outings easier.
August 3, 2019 - Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes raised, red patches and can have an impact on overall health. Helping seniors manage psoriasis symptoms improves their quality of life.
July 26, 2019 - About one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 have hearing loss. Nearly half of seniors over age 75 have difficulty hearing. Here are some ways you can spot potential hearing loss in your senior loved one and help them stay safe.
July 19, 2019 - Throwing things away can feel wasteful, but when products are expired or out of date, they can be dangerous. Here are some keep-or-toss tips that will keep your senior safer and healthier in their home.
July 16, 2019 - Following surgery, whether minor or major, people often face a challenging list of orders and limitations. Belvedere Home Care’s post-surgical caregivers serve all people in recovery, whether it is from heart surgery, joint replacement, cancer treatment or other medical issues.
July 10, 2019 - Your senior loved one may brush off their memory lapses and occasional confusion as “old-timer’s disease,” or “a senior moment.” But chronic difficulties with memory, planning and completing the tasks of daily living and issues that worsen over time may be early signs of dementia.
July 6, 2019 - Seniors may not place a high priority on sun protection, but as we age our skin only becomes more vulnerable as we lose our natural protections against sun damage. July is National UV Safety Month. It’s important for seniors to practice sun safety, and for everyone to protect their skin now to prevent cancers later in life.
June 26, 2019 - Much of the loss of strength and stamina attributed to aging has been shown to be a direct result of reduced physical activity. By building healthy bones, muscles, and joints, seniors can maintain the ability to live independently and reduce the risk of falling and bone fractures.
June 17, 2019 - Home health care offers seniors regular professional medical care, and even daily or overnight care, in the comfort of their own home. And family caregivers get peace of mind.
June 7, 2019 - Seniors with cognitive impairments, whether the result of dementia, stroke or brain injury, not only require specialized care, each case is unique. The need for 24-hour care and monitoring can be taxing on family caregivers.
June 3, 2019 - Summer has arrived - and so has the heat! Even if you think your senior loved one is safe from the heat indoors, hot weather can still mean increased health risks for seniors. Over the last decade, about 40% of heat-related fatalities in the U.S. were among people over 65.
May 28, 2019 - While arthritis may seem like an inevitable part of aging, treatment has come a long way in helping those with arthritis live more productive and pain-free lives. There are things you can do every day to fight the symptoms and effects of arthritis.
May 17, 2019 - Osteoporosis is a silent disease, and by time someone realizes they had it, it can be difficult to treat or improve. Falls and fractures are very common among frail older adults, and osteoporosis can turn these incidents into fatal accidents. About 54 million people in the U.S. either have osteoporosis or are at increased risk for osteoporosis.
May 13, 2019 - Every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. has a stroke, yet many stroke victims are unaware that they were even at risk. Preventative measures, such as monitoring blood pressure at home, could lower the number of strokes by 80 percent.
April 29, 2019 - To have a loved one become bedridden is a big physical adjustment but also emotionally difficult for patients and families. Caregivers need to be aware of the risks to both they mental and physical health of the patient. Here are some common issues and how to prevent and manage them.
April 22, 2019 - How do you help a senior loved one who insists that they don’t need help? It's a challenge many families have to face. Here are tips for getting started with home health care when a senior who insists they don't need help.
April 15, 2019 - One of the biggest physical challenges of caregiving is transfers - moving a patient from a bed to a wheelchair, from a wheelchair to a couch or from a chair to a wheelchair, for example. Transferring patients from one position to another is essential to their health, and the ability to move in the environment helps the senior stay more independent.
April 8, 2019 - Traveling with a senior who has mobility issues, cognitive disorders or medical needs can be challenging, but a little planning, preparation and patience go a long way toward a successful vacation for everyone.
April 2, 2019 - Although you may have to do some cajoling to get them back out of their shell, seniors benefit from staying active and having a sense of community. So how can you help a senior loved one break out of an isolated rut?
March 25, 2019 - Having professional home health care can supplement the care that families are already providing to senior loved ones and add an extra dimension of expertise to keep seniors healthier even if they have acute or chronic conditions. Here are a few signs that your senior may benefit from home health care.
March 19, 2019 - By age 70, chronic pain affects 79% of women and 53% of men. Seniors often wrongly assume that being in pain is just a normal part of aging that they have to tolerate, but in many cases it can be managed for dramatic improvements in everyday life.
March 12, 2019 - It's always happy news when you find out your senior loved one can go home from the hospital. But then you realize that the care is now up to you, and that can be a little scary. With a little preparation, you can feel more confident in your role as caregiver. Here are some tips for helping your loved one transition from the hospital to their home.
March 3, 2019 - Chronic kidney disease is the 9th leading cause of death in the United States. Unlike many chronic illnesses, people with kidney disease may have no symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. More than 30 million Americans already have kidney disease, and most don’t know it and are not treating or managing their illness.
February 25, 2019 - During cold and flu season, most of us will likely turn to over-the-counter (OTC) medication to treat fevers, aches, coughs and congestion. However, many seniors are at risk for dangerous reactions and interactions to OTCs.
February 18, 2019 - An estimated 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. is coping with high blood pressure., and that number is even higher for seniors. One of the most important things you can do to manage high blood pressure is to track it every day.
February 11, 2019 - February is American Heart Month, dedicated to awareness, prevention and treatment of heart disease. People with heart disease can benefit from home health care, which can help assist with dietary requirements, staying on schedule for medications to ongoing monitoring of their heart and overall health.
February 2, 2019 - Pneumonia is an infection that causes fluid to collect in the lungs. Seniors are at higher risk for pneumonia for a variety of reasons, and those who are infected can face complications, hospitalization, eight weeks of recovery or, in some cases, death. some simple steps can lower their risk.
January 29, 2019 - We use sight, smell and taste to tell us when food has gone bad. When these senses start to fade with age, it puts seniors are at greater risk of food poisoning. Seniors also have a higher chance of developing complications from food poisoning.
January 22, 2019 - Bathrooms can be a dangerous place for seniors - up to 80 percent of falls in the home occur in the bathroom. Installing safety features is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to help protect your senior loved one from fall injuries.
Jan. 11, 2019 - An estimated 30 million Americans are affected by COPD, putting them at higher risk for heart disease, lung cancer and a variety of other conditions. Home health care can help patients better manage their COPD.
Dec. 14, 2018 - Less sugar, less salt and less fat mean fewer familiar options at the traditional holiday table. But there are ways to enjoy without overindulging or getting off track. If you are a caregiver for someone on a restricted diet, here are some basic tips for healthier holiday eating!
Dec. 9, 2018 - During the holidays everyone sees their to-do lists grow and their schedules fill. It’s an ideal time to take advantage of respite care so caregivers can attend holiday events, shop or spend time with other family members.
Nov. 29, 2018 - From falls on slick, icy sidewalks, driving on dangerous roads and the risks of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning there are many winter safety hazards for seniors. Plus, seniors are at greater risk for hypothermia, and constant cold can make them more vulnerable to illness.
Nov. 19, 2018 - A senior’s health and appearance can change dramatically in just a few months. Some changes – maybe they have a few extra pounds, are a little less spry, or have some minor forgetfulness, for example – are to be expected. That’s just aging. So when should you be concerned about changes in a senior loved one?
Nov. 9, 2018 - Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common bacterial infection in seniors. While they can be treated effectively once diagnosed, UTIs are often misidentified in seniors. How do you know if your senior loved one has a UTI?
Nov. 2, 2018 - After an injury, illness or surgery, your senior loved one may be facing an uphill battle for recovery without some assistance in the home. Home health care services can help with anything a patient needs to speed their recovery.
Oct. 28, 2018 - Chronic disease is the most common reason for preventable hospital readmissions. Senior loved ones may be trying to manage their health, but lack expertise to recognize potential issues, resulting in disease progression, relapse, infections and unnecessary hospitalizations. Home health care has been shown to reduce rehospitalization rates.
Oct. 19, 2018 - Hearing loss the most common conditions affecting older and elderly adults. More than 30 percent of people between the ages of 65 and 74 have some hearing loss, while hearing loss affects 50 percent for those 75 and older. It can be frustrating for families and seniors, and can even compromise senior safety.
Oct. 12, 2018 - When someone says they feel sick, the first thing we do is put a hand on their forehead to feel for a fever. But for seniors, a fever may be the first sign that something is wrong.
Oct. 5, 2018 - When elderly loved ones can no longer maintain the family home, or when stairs or terrain have become too difficult to navigate, families face the tough decision of downsizing and moving seniors to a safer, smaller space.
Sept. 28, 2018 - Hip fractures change the lives of thousands of seniors every year. Most hip fractures require surgery and physical rehabilitation. It can be a long and challenging road to recovery.
Sept. 24, 2018 - Is your senior loved one restless? Wandering at night? Napping all day? Chances are they are experiencing the sleep disturbance insomnia. While insomnia affects about 50% of senior adults 60 and older, there are ways to alleviate its symptoms.
Sept. 12, 2018 - When a home or weather emergency strikes, you may have only minutes to help a senior loved one evacuate from their residence. When you are setting up and maintaining a household for a loved one with mobility issues, it’s important to plan how they can evacuate the home in case of a fire, storm or other natural disaster or emergency.
Sept. 5, 2018 - Flu vaccination is important for seniors because they are at high risk for secondary illnesses, such as pneumonia, and exacerbation of chronic health conditions such as emphysema and heart disease.
August 30, 2018 - The day-to-day management of diabetes, from cooking healthy meals to following testing and medication schedules, can prove difficult for seniors who may also be coping with other health conditions and mobility issues.
August 24, 2018 - If your loved one has difficulty reading, or has moved their furniture closer and closer to their TV, they may be having vision issues. Here are some simple and inexpensive steps that can make home life safer for seniors with vision issues.
August 17, 2018 - With advances in technology, from smartphones to wearables to whole-home systems, it’s easier than ever for caregivers to keep tabs on elderly loved ones, even from across the country. Technology offers not just safety and security; it can help seniors from feeling isolated.
August 10, 2018 - For seniors with health issues such as high blood pressure or diabetes, following a prescribed diet is essential if they want to stay healthier longer. Restrictions such as low salt or sugar can be more difficult for seniors because as we age, we lose some sense of taste. So how can we keep seniors happy AND healthy at mealtimes?
July 27, 2018 - Sundowning is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Those caring for loved ones in the mid-stage to advanced stages may find that restlessness, agitation, irritability, or confusion get worse in the late afternoon and evening. Here are some tips for managing sundowning behaviors.
July 20, 2018 - Caring for a loved one with dementia means playing a lot of roles and being on duty 24/7. Here are some of the challenges commonly faced by caregivers and some quick day-to-day coping tips.
July 13, 2018 - PCAs are home care professionals who assist with their day-to-day living activities so people with health conditions can stay in their homes. The most important things a PCA job candidate can bring to the table are commitment and compassion.
July 4, 2018 - For a senior loved one, independence can mean a lot of different things. It may be tied to their ability to drive or to take care of their bills. It may just mean getting to stay in their own home, living their own life, rather than going into an assisted living facility or nursing home. Whatever your senior considers to be their independence, it’s important to have respect and care for that aspect of their life.
June 28, 2018 - When the summer heat is on, it’s easy to become dehydrated, and this is especially true for seniors. Seniors are at higher risk for complications and hospitalizations related to dehydration. It's important to keep an eye on your senior's diet to make sure they are getting adequate fluids to maintain good health.
June 21, 2016 - No one likes to talk about their finances, especially if the conversation is casting doubt on their ability to manage money. For many seniors, managing their own finances is key to their feelings of independence. It’s important to keep tabs on a senior loved one’s finances to ensure that they have the money they need to live today and for the years to come.
June 14, 2018 - With families being more far-flung and mobile than ever before, it's not unexpected that some caregivers have to participate and offer support from afar. It can be a challenging role to manage.
June 8, 2018 - Hot weather brings health risks for seniors, even if they are spending most of their time indoors. Each year, most people who die from heat-related causes are over 50 years old. But there are some simple and inexpensive ways to help keep your loved one cool, comfortable and healthy this summer.
June 1, 2018 - New Medicare cards are going out to millions of seniors across the country, and scammers are taking advantage. Learn how to help protect your senior loved one.
May 23, 2018 - Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for people aged 65 and up. That’s why it's essential to create an environment that helps prevent falls and accommodates the health issues that put seniors at risk for falling.
May 17, 2018 - Medication dosages, schedules and restrictions can be complicated when you have just one or two prescriptions to manage. But many seniors have a dozen or more medications to juggle daily. Keeping seniors on schedule with their medications is important to maintaining their health. It can also pose a serious health hazard if they take too many pills or skip doses.
May 10, 2018 - When a parent or loved one needs 24-hour care, the first thought may be that the only option is a nursing home or other care facility. But 24-hour home care can help keep those who need more intense medical care in their homes longer and offer family caregivers respite.
May 4, 2018 - Once you decide that home care is the right decision for you, it's time to prepare your loved one and their home for the new caregiver and the new routine. Here are some tips that can make the transition to home care easier for you, your loved one and your caregiver.
April 26, 2018 - How can you tell when a senior loved one is no longer a safe driver? While age alone can’t predict driving ability and safety, getting older can mean slower reflexes, vision issues and health conditions that may impair driving ability. Here are some questions to help you assess their driving skills and safety.
April 19, 2018 - Occupational therapists use exercise and rehabilitation techniques to help seniors with mobility, vision and cognitive issues successfully achieve their daily life activities in their own homes. They can also help families create a safer, healthier environment for their loved ones.
April 13, 2018 - Vaccines are especially important for adults ages 65 and over. As you age, your immune system weakens and less able to fight off illness and infections. Seniors are more vulnerable to flu, pneumonia, and shingles and other illnesses that can come with long-term, or even fatal, complications.
April 3, 2018 - Your healthcare team can help you decide what level of medical care your loved one needs but deciding that a senior needs help with household tasks can be trickier. But more than just unsightly, a dirty or cluttered house is a health hazard for seniors.
March 23, 2018 - Spring cleaning is a great way to sweep out the winter doldrums and welcome the fresh, new season with a clean and organized home. For caregivers whose loved ones have health and mobility issues, it’s also a good opportunity to assess their health and safety.
March 11, 2018 - Personal care aides (PCAs) are home care professionals who assist people with their day-to-day living activities. At Belvedere Home Care, our PCAs serve the elderly, the chronically ill, people with life-limiting conditions and people with physical or mental disabilities.
Feb. 28, 2018 - Belvedere Home Care can offer any combination of medical care, personal care, transportation services and assistance with household tasks. Whether your hours, days or level of care needs change, we are here to assist you.
February 26, 2018 - For seniors who are homebound, loneliness is more than being sad or having a bad day; it can seriously impact their health.
February 14, 2018 - Watching a loved one cope with cardiovascular disease is enough to break your heart. The Belvedere Home Care staff has specialized training and the experience to care for clients living with cardiovascular conditions and help them stay home longer with the benefit of professional care.
February 8, 2018 - For seniors living at home, pets can be an important part of their daily lives. More than just companionship, pets can help reduce stress, increase activity, lower blood pressure and increase social interaction.
February 5, 2018 - There are many misconceptions about paying for home health care and other forms of long-term care for seniors. The biggest is that people vastly underestimate their potential need and the very real cost.
January 26, 2018 - In the winter months, when you aren’t feeling summer’s heat, it can be easy to forget that you need to drink.
January 14, 2018 - At the beginning of each year, we reflect upon everything that has changed in the last 12 months and plan ahead for what the New Year will bring. It’s also a time many of us make the resolution to be more organized or to stop procrastinating.
One task that many families put off far too long is estate planning. If you are taking steps now to get your finances and taxes and budgets settled for the new year, stay in that paperwork-and-planning mind frame and make sure that your…
December 8, 2017 - Sometimes going home for the holidays is bittersweet, especially for adult children traveling long distances to see their parents.
A senior’s health and appearance can change dramatically in just a few months. If you haven’t been able to visit older parents since summer, for example, it might surprise you to see how much they have aged.
December 4, 2017 - Cary Myers has been named the new chief financial officer of Belvedere Health Services.
“I look forward to contributing to Belvedere’s continued success, and I appreciate very much this new opportunity. Hopefully, I can make a positive impact to the company and I am committed to its vision of caring for and about people, no matter what.”
November 30, 2017 - Caregivers and patients need the support of everyone around them for a safe and healthy holiday season.
If you’re a caregiver, make sure everyone is aware of dietary restrictions and any dangers deviations may pose. If everyone thinks they are the only one offering a diabetic just a little piece of dessert or a sip of wine, for example, it won’t take long for trouble to set in. Make sure your family and friends are helping you support your loved one’s good health.
November 27, 2017 - It can be difficult for families to tell the difference between the average mental issues of growing older versus symptoms that can signal the early stages of dementia.
The changes may occur so gradually that family hasn’t noticed. The senior may have been able to adjust to problems well enough to disguise more serious issues. Or the family may be reluctant to see and admit that their loved one is having trouble that may require ongoing care.
Seniors may at first be…
November 23, 2017 - Everyday life is stressful enough for caregivers. Throw in the pressure to buy 127 gifts, bake a turkey and create a magical wonderland of joy and memories for the whole family, and it’s a recipe for disaster.
Caregivers shouldn’t have to dread the holidays.
Here are a few quick, easy ways to plan ahead, slow down and get a time out when you can’t take one more fa-la-la.
November 17, 2017 - Deciding a loved one needs help at home can be an emotional decision – for the loved one and the family.
But home health care doesn’t mean the family doesn’t care enough, or that the loved one is incapable. It means you want the best care, and time to focus on what’s important rather than struggling through daily tasks.
Home health care allows many types of patients to stay in the comfort of their own homes while receiving professional caregiver treatment and monitoring.
November 14, 2017 - For John McCooey, home health care is personal.
The Belvedere Home Care president experienced firsthand what it was like to have a loved one unable to stay in their home because the right care was not available.
“Belvedere’s mission is to keep people safe in the community,” he said. “We’re a community-based provider, and we’ve been that since day one.”
February 27, 2017 - As the temperatures drop we stockpile firewood, check the weather stripping and pull the snow shovels out of the garage rafters. Don’t forget to get your senior loved ones and their homes ready for winter weather, too!
Winter is full of hazards for seniors, from increased falls to hazardous driving to dangerous wind chills. A few easy steps can help you all be prepared and ready for the long season ahead.
