CareNovate Empowering Caregivers, Women & Families Globally!
Magazine Are You Ready For
ObamaCare? Read This Issue & Get Covered!
Summer/Fall 2013 * Issue #1
Medication Alert? Questions to ask your doctor. Elder Care Options Part 1 of 8 series for Baby Boomers & Adults caring for their loved ones.
Tweetable tips including
websites, apps, tools for Caregivers & Patients.
PREMIER ISSUE www.carenovatemag.com
[{in this
Contents. Sum
IN EVERY ISSUE Editors NOTES - 4 Contributors - Many Thanks -8 Book Club - 24 Products/Services We Dig - 43 Real Life, Real Care - 52 Questions & Inspiring Quotes "Sticky Note" Tips
CAREGIVING INSIGHTS
SOCIAL HEALTH RESOURCES Pinterest for Health - pg. 44
ELDER/SENIOR CARE Elder Care Series - Adult Day Care Options - pg. 20
Actions of a True CareNovator - pg. 10
HEALTH LITERACY
Communication 101 - pg. 14
6 Steps to Patient-Provider Communication - pg. 58
What makes Caregivers Healthy? - pg. 28
HEALTH & WELLNESS Learn ObamaCare & Get Covered - pg. 16
MEDICATION SAFETY Shedding new light on Sunscreen - pg. 12
10 questions to ask before taking any medications - pg. Washed Your Hands Laterly? 17 - pg. 32 Social Media Campaign Tips for Skin Health, Naturally - pg. 50 #Medsafety Caregivers - pg. 60
s issue}]
mmer/Fall 2013
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20 56 Issue 1 August/September 2013
Editor's Notes Ithet first is with much excitement that I present to you digital edition of CareNovate Magazine. Created by sandwich generation caregivers & health care professionals just for YOU.
Caregiving is heroic, loving and rewarding, yes it can be. However, the role can be lonely, overwhelming, and scary. Our complex & costly health care system is in constant flux and with these changes, presents more hoops to navigate. Low health literacy costs billions on an annual basis and medication safety and adherence (the other drug problem) continues to be an issue of many discussion and innovation. Our aging population are living longer due to medical innovations but we have caregiving crisis to remedy. In this issue and everyone after this (we are already working on issue #2), you will find practical medication safety tips, social health resources and health literacy insights from experts. These tips and resources aims to empower you with evidence based information, data, tips, resources so you can be a health care partner with your providers. This magazine will serve as a source of inspiration and motivation to help you in those moments when you need a hand or a word of encouragement or acknowledgment. We support you. Be strong & stay positive. Subscribe free to this magazine and contact us with your suggestions for improvements and future stories. Have an amazing summer & don't forget to take care of yourself. Remember, in Health & Care
Connect With Us!
Goldie
info@carenovate.com.
CareNovate Magazine
INTRO
Magazine for Caregivers, Women Health, Boomers & Chief Health + Household Officer! CareNovate, LLC Publisher Dr G. Erowele Chief Editor - info@carenovate.com Mr. K. Erowele, MBA Editorial/Technical Director Emma Ojikau, MBA, Dr. Ketra Ikezuagu (MD), Dr. Ojey (MD) Medical Editor/Reviewers Drs. Darlington & Dr U. Ojiaku: Medical Advisors Contributing Writers: Goldina Erowele, Dawn Navaratnasingam, Angil Tarach-Ritche, Judy Fox. Advertising/Partnership/Sponsorship Inquires Media Kit or info@carenovate.com Editorials, Writers, Question, Comments, Letter to the Editor info@carenovate.com Stay Empowered, Inspired & Motivated! Editorial Office 9119 Hwy 6, Suite 230, Missouri City, TX 77459 832.589.007. Email: info@carenovate.com @Carenmag Facebook.com/carenmag
COPYRIGHT All text, images & design in this publication are subject to copyright. all artwork accepted on strict condition that permission has been given to use in this publication Disclaimer Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication. The editors can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors in either editorial or advertising content.
Elder & Sen ior C are F Did Y act ou K U.S
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Contributors Goldina Erowele, PharmD CareNovate Magazine carenovatemag.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Clinical pharmacist & co-founder of CareNovate Magazine. Prior to a career in pharmacy, Dr Erowele was a certified nursing assistant (CNA), passionate about helping the senior and elderly population. Attended Howard University College of Pharmacy. She enjoys her many roles especially as a daughter, sister, friend, wife and a mother of three beautiful children.
Dawn Navaratnasingam
The Well Norished Family thewellnourishedfamily.com ----------------------------------------------------
Devoted wife, fulfill her passion of working with fellow busy mothers to regain balance in their lives and strengthen family harmony. She earned her BS from The Ohio State University and MS from American University. prior to receiving her training from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York City. She is certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. She leads wellness workshops and offers individual as well as group health and nutrition coaching.
Angil Tarach-Ritchey RN, GCM
Author - The Coming Elder Boom - www.elderboom.org ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Passionate nurse & a nationally known eldercare and aging expert and the best-selling and award-winning author of Behind the Old Face: Aging in America and the Coming Elder Boom. Angil has over 30 years experience in geriatric care and advocacy. She is available for speaking engagements and consulting for families and professionals.
Judy Fox
When The Table Turns www.whenthetableturns.com ** * * * * * * * Born in New York City, Ms. Fox received a BA in English literature and MA in Teaching English as a Second language. Traveled extensively, an artist and currently doing research on a documentary being made on an extraordinary woman historian. For the past year, she has been living most of the time with her 97 year old mother and started a blog site with a good friend called “When the table turns.� www.whenthetableturns.com
We appreciate our Contributors! Many, many thanks. You Rock!
*
7
ACTIONS OF A TRUE CARENOVATO R *********************
ACTIONS OF A TRUE CARENOVATO R
7
Image: Geralt at Pixbay.com
Eats fruits, veges & execise, at least 30 minutes walk. Takes 5 minutes break when things gets hectic & ASK FOR HELP! Always compliment friends & strangers. It really does the soul good. Celebrates all sucesses. Pats themselves in the back for all they for others. Yes, you! Always grateful for what they have, prays & have faith. Tries not to focus on the bad that happended yesterday, she/he marches forward & look foward to the wonders of tomorrow.
.
Prepares for doctors appointments ahead of time, make list of concerns & ask all questions.
Shedding New Lights on Sunscreen By Dr G. Erowele We all enjoy spending time outside in the sun. But did you know that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S.? While some types of skin cancer are highly curable, others are much more dangerous and aggressive. The Food Drug & Administration (FDA) recently changed rules doe sunscreen labels. How can you choose the best option for you and your family? Below are some of the things you need to know to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Here are some updates on the statistics, guidelines and what to look for when shopping for sunscreen at the stores.
Y
one to sunburn without wearing es, summer is here and the rays sunscreen as opposed to the time it would take with sunscreen on. Higher are shinning with delight. Recent data SPF values also indicate higher levels of from the American Cancer Society UVB rays, but none offers 100% (ACS) estimates that protection. --- 1 American dies every HOUR from skin cancer. Difference b/w UVA & UVB? --- More than 3.5 million new cases of When you think sunrays, think UVB rays skin cancer diagnosed. = Sun Burn --- 2.2 million people treated in the U.S. UVA rays = Penetrate the skin & causes each year. wrinkling, leathering, sagging, and --- 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed other light-induced effects of aging. with skin cancer. Sunscreens vary in their ability to The Good News: There are preventive measures & sunscreen! Skin cancer is highly curable if discovered early. What is SPF? Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating is a measure of the time it takes
protect against UVA and UVB. TIPS: Read the next page for all the newhowever the key takeaways includes: 1. Use a water-proof sunscreen. 2. Buy a suncreen with SPF 30 or higher
Look for "broad spectrum" sunscreen to provide protection against both ultraviolet B radiation (UVB) and ultraviolet A radiation (UVA). New suncreens products CANNOT claim "sunblock" or "water proof" or "water-or-sweat-resistant"
Sunscreen products that
Everyone is potentially susceptible to sunburn and the other detrimental effects of exposure to UV radiation Remember, cloudy days does not mean anything. You can still BURN! So You must use SUNCREEN!!! Prevention is the KEY.
protect against all types of sun-induced skin damage will be labeled "Broad Spectrum" and “SPF 15” (or higher) on the front. Not all sunscreens are created equal.
Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, more often if you’re sweating or jumping in and out of the water. Limit time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense.
Skin Safety Source - Food Drug Administration, American Cancer Society, Skin Cancer Prevention.org,
More Sunscreen Tips
Communication 101 Tips for Caregivers
1
As caretaker, carers, Apply sunscreen 15 minutes caregivers and health care professionals, before going out in the we are responsible for conveying vital sun. information to each other every day. 2 The key to communicating is using clear If you don't have much and plain language that is hair, apply sunscreen to understandable. To do this the right the top of your head, or way, follow these simple tips: wear a hat. 3 Give babies and children extra care in the sun. 4 Ask a health care professional before applying sunscreen to children under 6 months old. 5 Apply sunscreen to children older than 6 months every time they go out.
Be concise
Think short, sweet and courteous. Communicate the most important information and leave out non-essential details.
Speak clearly and slowly Take time to provide the information, instructions and/or directions. Ask questions to check for understanding.
Avoid using medical jargon and abbreviations Use plain language!
Body language
Eye contact and body language speak as loudly as words do. Make sure your body language and your words are saying the same thing.
Catch Up Online Between Digital Editions www.carenmag.com
www.carenovatemag.com
Learn "Obamacare & Get Covered The new health care law, Affordable Care Act (ACA) also known as “Obamacare” turned 3 year old, March 2013 however, the majority of America’s uninsured still do not know about the law. Many of the people who stand to benefit the most from these changes don’t know about the new health coverage options they will soon be eligible for.
FACTS!
Nearly 50 million Americans are living without insurance today. Over half of the uninsured have been without coverage for more than three years. Another 21 percent have been without coverage for between one and three years. 78% of the uninsured are in a working family. 44% of Americans have shopped for health insurance outside of their job, and a majority of those have had significant challenges finding quality insurance they can afford. 69% of uninsured adults said that one of the reasons they are uninsured is because the cost is too high or they lost their job, compared to just 2% who said they are uninsured because they do not need coverage. About 78% of the uninsured don’t know that they will be able to purchase insurance in the new health care exchanges created by the Affordable Care Act. 83% of the people who may be eligible for the new Medicaid expansion do not know about the new coverage options coming. More than half of the uninsured say they want help figuring out what financial assistance they may qualify for and choosing a health plan that’s right for them.
HERE'S HOW IT WILL WORK:
If you work for a small business, or are self-employed, or work part-time and your employer doesn't offer coverage, you'll be able to choose from the same plans as your Member of Congress, get a break on the cost (a new tax subsidy that will reduce the cost of your plan before you pay anything toward it), and benefit from financial protections limiting how much you and your family will have to pay out-of-pocket each year.
If your employer offers coverage that's inadequate or unaffordable (affordable = a plan that costs less than 9.5% of an employee’s W-2 wages, adequate = a plan than pays at least 60% of covered health care expenses), you aren't stuck with that terrible coverage anymore. Instead, you can choose to get covered in the new marketplace, and you'll get the same break on costs as everyone else.
e"
10 ways "Obamacare" protects you t and in 2014: 1.
6.
Creates the Health Insurance Holds insurance companies accountable Marketplace, a new way for you to get by reviewing rate increases and making health coverage & the health care law sure you get more value for your offers new rights and protections that premium dollars. make coverage fairer and easier to 7. understand. Makes it illegal for health insurance companies to arbitrarily cancel your 2. health insurance just because you get Requires insurance companies to cover sick you if you have a pre-existing health 8. condition Protects your choice of doctors 3.
4.
Provides free preventive care
5.
Covers young adults under age 26 Helps you understand what you’re getting with a clear Summary of Benefits & Coverage
9.
Ends lifetime and yearly dollar limits on coverage of essential health benefits
10.
Guarantees your right to appeal a health plan decision
More Information? 3 key dates you'll want to mark on your calendar October 1, 2013: Marketplace open enrollment starts January 1, 2014: Health coverage can start March 31, 2014: Open enrollment ends Resources Get Covered America - http://www.getcoveredamerica.org/ Enroll America - http://www.enrollamerica.org/ Health.Gov - https://www.healthcare.gov/
Coming Up Next Exciting Issue - Issue #2
CareNovate Magazine Fall/Winter Edition
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Feature Article - Eldercare Series
Senior Care Options Part 1 - Adult Day Care Programs By Angil Tarach-Ritchey, RN, GCM
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Facts: According to the National Adult Day Care Services Association (NADSA), the growing industry of over 4,600 adult day centers in the United States, now estimated to be more than 5,000 centers. Adult day services are a growing source of long-term care. More than 260,000 participants and family caregivers are serviced through a range of interdisciplinary professionals meeting the physical, emotional, and social needs of participants and family caregivers.
Pictures Ritchey provided by Ms. Tarach-
hen families find themselves in need of care for an aging loved one many are caught off guard without knowing much, if any, about the different types of care options and how to choose. Education empowers you to make appropriate decisions and this series is intended to help you do exactly that. Outside of families taking care of an elderly loved one at home, there are 8 types of care that will be included in this series. Care can be obtained in home or outside the home, occasionally, part time, or full time, temporary, or permanently, and all of those will be explained through each of the 8 articles in this series. The types of care outside of the home are day programs, assisted living, rehabilitation, memory care, and skilled nursing care. Inside the home there is private duty homecare, home health care, and hospice care. Specific types of care may even be utilized at the same time, which will also be discussed. We will begin the series with adult Day Programs.
What is Adult Day Care Program?
Some refer to this as Day Care, but I tend not to use terms that are interchangeable with children’s terminology because we are talking about aging adults, not children, and we need to be respectful of them and use terminology that is dignified. Day Programs, as the name implies, are programs outside of the home that are set up in churches, independent buildings, schools, or as part of a combination of care types, such as in an assisted living facility. Most only operate Mondays to Fridays during business hours, but some offer Saturday care and even less offer care in the evening or overnight. These programs are often for individuals with memory loss as is in Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. These programs include age appropriate and cognitively appropriate activities, a lunch program, snacks, assistance with medications, and safe monitoring.
:
Tip
When you are considering a day program i trained, whether they do criminal background activities they offer, and whether they
More Facts:
Programs vary in their admission criteria, but many don’t allow individuals who are incontinent or that have significant physical or health needs to attend to. They are usually not staffed in a way to handle needs more appropriate for nurses aides or even nurses. Many of these programs have professional social workers who either are administrators, program directors, or are even the individuals who run the day to day activities with the participants. Social work or other healthcare students often work as activity aides to assist the individual running the program and the clients, but each state varies in their regulations and licensing, so some may not have any healthcare professionals on staff. There are day programs in neighborhood communities that are held and cordinated by churches. This is a great choice for seniors who have mild to moderate cognitive impairment, are physically mobile, like to socialize or participate in activities, and need a safe environment, either part-time to give family caregivers a break, or respite as it’s called, or fulltime while family caregivers work, or tend to another responsibility. It’s great for seniors who are lonely, or don’t have any people in their lives around their age. Socialization is extremely important to wellness and this type of care gives seniors age appropriate peers and activities that are more relatable and outside of family. Truthfully, as much as we may love our families, it’s important to socialize with people outside of the family too.
inquire about how the staff are hired and checks on potential employees, what y will administer medications.
Adult day care centers serve as an emerging provider of transitional care and short-term rehabilitation following hospital discharge. As a preferred platform for chronic disease management, adult day centers are an interactive, safe and secure environment for participants requiring supervised daily care. Each state provides different regulations for the operation of adult day care centers, although NADSA offers some overall guidelines in its Standards and Guidelines for Adult Day Care. NADSA recommends a minimum staff-to-participant ratio of one to six. This ratio can be even smaller, depending upon the level of participant impairment. If a program serves a large proportion of participants with dementia, for example, the ratio of staff to participants should be closer to one to four.
Lunch costs vary too but most include lunch in the hourly charges. Because these are independently operated and don’t include medical care they vary in hours, acceptance criteria, what’s included in the fees, what they charge, their activities and type of staff, and other details such as how snacks are supplied. They do seem more lenient with scheduling than children’s daycare programs, which typically charge for missed days, but again these details vary by program and even area of the country.
S
ocialization is extremely important to wellness and this type of care gives seniors age appropriate peers and activities that are more relatable and outside of family. Truthfully, as much as we may love our families, it’s important to socialize with people outside of family too. Costs vary in these programs, but tend to range slightly lower than hourly homecare costs.
C
OSTS:
Costs vary in these programs, but tend to range slightly lower than hourly homecare costs. Some allow families to pay on a sliding scale according to income, so you will need to check with each program in your area to see if that is available. These programs are not covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private health insurance, and typically do not have transportation so seniors and families are responsible for payment and transportation to and from the facility.
When you are considering a day program, inquire about how the staff are hired and trained, whether they do criminal background checks on potential employees, what activities they offer, and whether they will administer medications. Even if your loved one does not take medications during the program’s hours, you should ask because they could possibly be ordered a medication during the day in the future and you don’t want to move your loved one because they take a pill with lunch. Ask if there is a contract that you must sign and what is in that contract. Ask whether they require payment for a scheduled day if your loved one is sick or there is an emergency and they are hospitalized. Find out when they terminate care when a participant declines. For instance, if your Mom is continent and then becomes incontinent, will she be discharged from the program? Programs such as these are wonderful and cost effective but aren’t capable of covering the needs of seniors as they decline, so consider that in your decision too. If your loved one has had a rapid decline from Alzheimer’s you may not want to start them in a program only to have to remove them soon and place them in a more intensive type of care. Moving individuals with memory loss is very difficult for them and adds to their decline.
Stayed tuned for Part 2- Assisted Living in the next issue! istockphotos
Question What is your favorite online support group? Email us at info@carenovate.com. Hey, your response could be featured in our next issue.
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Have a caregiving, health literacy or patient safety news or event to share? Email it to Editor at info@carenovate.com Do not include copyright protected photos, thanks!
Did You Know CareNovate Magazine
is hyperlink enabled? When you move your mouse over any page, logo, picture, image, notice a slight color change. Click on the image & something amazing happens!
In Every We Will
Mr Rob Harris provides every caregiver, with the valuable tools they need to navigate through their medical journey. T his book is a source of solutions and support for dealing with the mental, physical and emotional aspects of caregiving.
What We Love: Mr Harris is so passionate about his caregiving role. This book provides fantastic tips on how to deal with "cancer" diagnosis new to dealing with obstacles and how to care for yourself in the midst of caregiving chaos.
By reading this book, you, too, can appreciate every single day in a way you have never experienced before or ever thought imaginable.
books/ebo ides/podc os
That will he you journey wellness &
Have a fa Email us info@caren
Award-winning author Martine Ehrenclou, M.A., empowers patients to become proactive, assertive, well-informed participants in their own health care. With advice and personal stories from over 200 doctors, nurses, pharmacists, other medical professionals and patients, The Take-Charge Patient reveals how to navigate today’s complex health care system with confidence.
What We Love: Not only has this book won 14 national awards, the book is insightful, empowering and multidisplinary. It includes perspectives from hers as a patient, health care professionals & other patients. It is a gem!
y Issue, l Share
ooks/egu cast/vide s
elp you as y in health, caregiving.
avorite? s yours novate.com
Why We Love It: A book written by a true caregiver, professional & expert in the field. Ritchey has true knowledge, insight and skill in dealing with issues of the elderly. She has a profound sensitivity and compassion for educating families, professional caregivers and healthcare professionals. Teenage nursing-home aide Angil Tarach-Ritchey's discovery of a resident's old love letters altered her view of elderly patients and inspired her career of advocating for quality elder care. Angil Tarach-Ritchey RN, GCM is a national expert in senior care. With over 30 years in senior care and advocacy, Angil is very passionate about improving the treatment, living and care of aging adults and is well respected in her field. Her insightful work is not only appreciated by seniors and family caregivers, it is recognized by her professional peers.
Caregiving expert, Sherri Snelling interviews celebrities who have taken the caregiving journey. This how-to guide also covers caregiving topics A to Z, self-care advice and more. Written to inspire and empower you, this is your screenplay for health and happiness while caregiving. What We Love: We love the celebrity interviews, it humanizes the caregiving experience. The beauty of this book is that it highlights that the caregiving journey, expereince, the high & lows is unversal. Some of the stars interviewed includes Joan Lunden (Good Morning America), Holly Robinson Peete (21 Jump Street), Marg Helgenberger (CSI), Alana Stewart (friend of Farrah Fawcett), Alan and David Osmond (the Osmond family), Jill Eikenberry and Michael Tucker (L.A. Law), and Sylvia Mackey (NFL wife)
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Healthy Tips for Caregivers
Dawn Navaratnasingam, caregiver, mom of 3 young children and a certified health coach provides nugget of advice & tips for caregivers and parents on daily actionable habits to remain healthy.
T
here are no two ways about it - caregiving is demanding. It requires intense focus on the needs of others, oftentimes resulting in caregivers overlooking themselves. They then find themselves tapped out - depleted of energy, starved for time, and overwhelmed with stress. How can caregivers cope with these seemingly insurmountable obstacles and make their wellbeing a priority? Following are three self-care tips caregivers can easily integrate into their daily routines that will result in a renewed and relaxed mind, body, and spirit, ultimately benefitting both the caregiver and patient.
Eat healthy. This sounds so simple, yet the appeal of highly
processed and refined foods draws many away from healthful eating. Yes, packaged foods are quick and easy, but the ingredients, to include refined sugars, salt, artificial colors and flavors, and preservatives leave one’s body undernourished, resulting in low energy and poor moods. Rather than packaged foods, select foods in their whole, natural forms, such as fruit and nuts. Grab a container of unsweetened yogurt and add honey. Rice cakes topped with allnatural peanut butter is another good option. Eating nutrient-dense foods such as these are as convenient, if not more convenient, than eating food out of a box or plastic wrapper. Healthy foods leave you satiated and provide the sustained energy you need as a caregiver.
Regular exercise. Yes, caregiving takes much of your time. How
can you possibly fit in additional time for exercise when you’re already exhausted? Rather than tiring your body further, regular exercise lifts your spirits and boosts your energy levels. Your exercise routine does not have to be intense - a simple 20-30 minute walk will benefit your body tremendously and give you the energy you need to face the caregiving tasks at hand.
Health/Wellness Feature
.
Relaxation routine. Given the stress of caregiving, it is vital caregivers implement a relaxation routine. This can be as simple as taking ten deep breaths a few times a day. Meditation and/or yoga are excellent ways to relax and stay in tune with your body. Keeping your body relaxed helps manage your stress levels and keeps negative thoughts at bay. You deserve to make yourself a priority. Your patients deserve a healthy caregiver with the energy and positive outlook essential to providing for their needs. Implementing these three simple tips into your life will phenomenally improve the way you feel both physically and mentally. You will be a vibrant life force ready to face any task at hand.
.
"Caregiving is demanding. It requires intense focus on the needs of others, oftentimes resulting in caregivers overlooking themselves. They then find themselves tapped out - depleted of energy, starved for time, and overwhelmed with stress" Pixbay Images. Istockphoto (Fruits)
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Public Health Feature
Have You Washed Your Hands Lately? G. Erowele, PharmD
Y
ou have a cold, you feel terrible. You go to see your health care provider. Your doctor suggests "you have a viral infection" and you ask for an antibiotic prescription...Does this sound about right? Yes, I know but do you know that there's a cheaper way to prevent the spread of germs and infections? Hand washing! Hand washing is so easy to do and when done correctly, is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of many types of illness in all settings—from your home and workplace to child care facilities and hospitals. Washing hands with soap and water is the prefered way however, if soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands in some situations, but sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately two million hospital patients get infections each year. That’s about 1 infection for every 20 patients.
Facts of the effects of hand washing:
It is estimated that washing hands with soap and water could cut diarrheal diseaseassociated deaths by up to 50%. A large percentage of foodborne disease outbreaks are spread by contaminated hands. Appropriate hand washing practices can reduce the risk of foodborne illness and other infections. Hand washing can cut the risk of respiratory infections by 16%. In a recent survey conducted by KRC Research for the global hygiene company, Americans aren’t washing their hands as much as they should. Results of a survey interview of 1,000 adults across the country found that 71 % claimed to wash their hands on a regular basis 58% have witnessed others leave a public restroom without hand washing 35% have witnessed a co-worker leave the restroom without hand washing 20% have witnessed a restaurant worker leave the restroom without hand washing.
.. ..
So when SHOULD we all wash your hands? The CDC recommends: -- Before, during, and after preparing food -- Before eating food -- Before and after caring for someone who is sick -- Before and after treating a cut or wound -- After using the toilet -- After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet -- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing -- After touching an animal or animal waste -- After handling pet food or pet treats -- After touching garbage Watch the video about. courtsey of the CDC. Learn more at: CDC.gov, WHO.gov
Caregiving Fact! Did you know that ... Women who are depressed have a 2 to 3 times higher risk of@carenmag heart disease than other women. #Caregivers SOURCE: NFCA Tweet this. Join the discussion
Smart Apps, Tec
In this spotlight section, we feature patient ca management apps, pharm Our goal is to connect caregivers & p
To learn more about any of these pro
click on the im
chs & Websites.
are tools, caregiving resources, medication macy related websites. patients to the available resources.
oducts/services, see pages 36-37 or
mage below.
family documents & information in a fun and
Copatient
fast way. You get rewards for using it! available a
Rebecca Palm and Katie Vahle are the power duo helping consumers identify and resolve medical billing errors and Treatment Diaries overcharges. On their secure web site, patients & caregivers can submit their bills and insurance documents, receive a free medical After Amy Ohm was diagnosed with mela she looked online for information abo bill audit identifying. Copatient team will disease and private support from review and provide any savings opportunities. survivors. Finding little, she fo There are expert medical billing advocatea TreatmentDiaries.com, a social netw who pursue those savings on their behalf. people living with or caring for someon Users pay only if their advocate successfully a chronic illness. Amy cordinates and reduces their bills. #Treatdiarieschat via Twitter every Tu on various topics and guests - experts i
RxeConsult
Dr Ogbru is the CEO of RxEconsult, which is a free social network for businesses and professionals in health related fields . It is a unique professional healthcare community where members network, where experts publish content, promote their expertise and experience, and find jobs or other opportunities.
GeriJoy Victor Wang is a MIT grad was inspired to start GeriJoy by his home-bound grandmother who developed depression. GeriJoy makes virtual companions, specifically, talking dog called "Buddy" (pet therapy) for lonely seniors. Intelligent, compassionate & internetconnected, they improve mental health, connect families & bring joy to geriatrics.
AboutOne Joanne Lang, mom of 4 is the smarts behind this secure and easy-to-use online family management system. A great tool that helps caregivers & families manage health, medication, household data and important
CureLaun
Cofounder Steve Goldner, a two-time survivor created CureLauncher, a ma service for patients to appropriate c trials at n The personalized service matches peo any of the 10,000 enrolling trials in t It not only matches patients to trials, provides easy-to-understand informati supports people throughout the entire p – from considering a clinical trial to sche an appointment to meet the tria
SeniorHomes
SeniorHomes.com (www.seniorhomes.c a free resource for individuals & fa looking for senior housing or senior car loved one or themselves. SeniorHome features a free care advisor service comprehensive directory of care option community ratings and family re
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In Great Companies...
Houston Area Mommies, Get Ready for Fabulous Fall Fun
The Numbe rs: W
orking Careg iver There are over 65 million family caregivers in the US. That means that nearly one-third of the U.S. adult population are caregivers. This segment of the population provides an average of 20 hours of care per week – with some providing care around the clock. You are a caregivers, if you provide unpaid care to another adult child, parent, grandparent or loved one. With the world getting demographically older at an alarming rate, it is no surprise we are seeing a growing trend among those who provide care, the caregivers. According to the Administration on Aging (AOA), the older population--persons 65 years or older--numbered 39.6 million in 2009. They represented 12.9% of the U.S. population, about one in every eight Americans. By 2030, there will be about 72.1 million older persons, more than twice their number in 2000. People 65+ represented 12.4% of the population in the year 2000 but are expected to grow to be 19% of the population by 2030. At this time, majority of caregivers are juggling work and caregiving. What does this mean for employers? There is a need huge need to the growing caregiving workforce. Interestingly, many caregivers are still unaware and for those who work, its part of their everyday lives. Are you a caregiver? Do you work as well? We want to hear your story! Tweet us @Carenmag or join us on Facebook.com/carenmag
Source: AARP, National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP study funded by the MetLife Foundation, Ad
More than a 25% of the U.S. adult population. Nearly 66 million people are family caregivers. 70% are caring for loved ones over the age of 50 61% of caregivers age 50+ work: 50 percent work full time, 11 percent work parttime. 42% of U.S. employees have cared for an older relative or friend in the last five years, and 49 percent of the workforce expects to provide care in the next five years. 20% of all female workers and 16 percent of all male workers in the U.S. are caregivers. 22%, almost a quarter of caregivers in the workplace are 45 to 64 years old.
Working Caregivers in the U.S. Cares For... 35%
Caregivers are also caring for family and friends:
32%
The breakdown as follows
Care for those 85 & older,
Care for those 75 - 84 years old,
17%
Care for those 65-74 years old
16%
Care for loved ones under the age of 65
Parents - 72% Grandparents- 7% Spouse - 5% Other family members - 5% Friends - 5% Sibling- 5% Aunt or uncle -5%
dministration on Aging, Gallup Consulting: The Wellbeing of the Working Caregiver Survey, 2010.
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Pinterest for Health Caregiving & Medicat Literacy Too‌ Pinterest users consume Pinterest
Psiteinterest is a social bookmarking where users collect and share
photos of their favorite events, wedding, receipes, fashion interests and hobbies. It is one of the fastest growing social networks online. Pinterest is the third-largest such network behind only Facebook and Twitter. Digihealth pulse , a company lauched by Enspektos, LLC designed to investigate how web and social media content impacts active digital health consumers' (or e-patients') awareness, perceptions and health behaviors published a study highlighting the role of Pinterest in health. As it turned out, 30% of
health conten subjects, incl
April 2012 data fr Planner shows that Pin base is 79% women HALF of users are age 3 are age 55+, and seni
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Health Care Social Media (#hcsm) Spotlight
You Never Know How Strong You Are Until Being Strong Is The Choice You Have Unknown
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Caregiving Advice. Social Health Resources. Medication Safety Tips. Health Literacy Information. And Much More
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July 22- Retreat from the Heat
Between 1979 and 2003, more Americans died from excessive heat exposure temperatures can cause many serious health problems like heat stroke, heat e important to check that loved ones and pets have the water and cool shelter t
This week, take precautions for yourself and your family alcoholic and sugary drinks); wear lightweight, light color, morning or evening.
Courtsey of The Monday Campaign. In association with Columbia University | Johns Hopkins University | Syracuse University . Permission Granted
e than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined. Extreme exhaustion, heat cramps, sunburn, and heat rashes. During the height of summer, it’s they need to stay safe.
y to avoid heat-related illnesses. Drink more fluids (but avoid , and loosely fitting clothing; and limit outdoor activity to the
August 26- Shake your Salt Habit Did you know that you can train your taste buds to enjoy less salt? When you gradually cut back on sodium in your diet, your taste will adjust too; plus you’ll experience all the subtle flavors that you’ve been missing. Keeping your sodium intake under 2,300 mg a day (or less than 1 teaspoon) can also reduce your risk of high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. It’s easy to skip the salt shaker and opt for low, no and reduced-sodium soups, broths and packaged foods. If your food seems less flavorful, spice it up with herbs and low-sodium seasonings.
Start reducing your salt intake this week. Remember that it can take a few months to completely re-train your taste buds, so be persistent and take it one meal at a time!
September 16- Start at the Store Every year, 1 out of 6 people gets sick from foodborne illness! Thankfully, you can take action at the grocery store to stay healthy. When shopping, pick up non-perishables first, followed by refrigerated/frozen items, and deli counter items last. Make sure you’re purchasing food that is fresh, the sell-by date is current, and that it has been kept at the correct temperature. Place cold items together in the cart to retain coldness. Have meat and poultry bagged separately from other food items. Refrigerate all perishable items immediately upon returning home..
This week, try to plan your shopping ahead of time so that you can make your grocery run quick, efficient and, most importantly, safe!
Skin Health, Naturally Joy Ekator Offers Skin Health Solution for Women & Families, The Natural Way Interview By Dr G. Erowele
W
e all love healthy, natural and clean skin. Well, I am so excited because, here I present to you the talented and beautiful, Mrs. Ekator. Here, she shares & discusses what it really takes to be a working mom and an entreprenuer PLUS a caregiver. About Joy Ekhator
Caregiver, wife, working mother of 3, former professional model, have a degree in computer science and worked for over 10 years as a developer and Senior Business Analyst/Project Manager at JPMorgan Chase Investment Bank.
What Inspired Her?
2 things: My children and growing up in Nigeria. As a working mother of 3 children with extreme dry skin condition, it was a challenge to follow doctor’s instructions to use medicated creams several times a day. After consulting with so many doctors and trying different medicated creams, the thought of my children using harsh chemicals on their skin was unacceptable. I started making lotions, cream and balms in my kitchen at home using Shea Butter (ori) that my mom brought me from Africa. I experimented with different essential oils. When my friends started requesting for samples, I was advised to monetize it as a business. I did! I started selling to other mothers who only want to use natural products. I am computer programmer and didn’t know what to name my business. I got home from work and asked my kids to think of a cute name for mommy’s new business. My daughter who is 5yrs old came up with the name Lovinah which she later explained means “Loving Natural” Lovinah Naturals is now a luxury natural skin care company. Its mission is to provide top quality all natural products for people prone to eczema, dry-toextra-dry and itchy skin conditions. Using only 100% natural and food grade ingredients, Lovinah Naturals is all about natural solutions to problem skin.
As a mom, how do you juggle being a caregiver to kids, husband and extended families and owner of a business? Plan, plan plan. It is hard. It's never easy being a mom trying to juggle a fulltime job with a family life, but I’m very passionate about what I do. Having a schedule, and I try to plan ahead, stay focused and organize, which is not
Who are your ideal customers? What are some of the main challenges that they face?
My ideal customers are women, caregivers, moms and parents with dry skin. We have many customers who are making that change to live a natual and holistic existence. With our skin being the largest organ of our body, we all should strive to nuture it as nature intended. The challenges most of our customers are facing is extreme dry skin conditions and using products with harsh chemicals conceals the real problem and sometimes makes the dry skin condition even worse. Our products are shea butter based, rich in vitamins and antioxidant that heals, nourishes and moisturizes.
What's next for Lovinah? Can you share what ideas are being developed and which customers might expect to find in the near future?
We are growing and working on a natural DIY spa products and makeup line. Global Kids Project, a non profit which provides early childhood education scholarship to children in rural Africa. This project is another passion of mine. Growing up in Africa, I have witnessed first-hand how children go to school with torn clothes, no shoes, no basic school supplies, no access to clean water or proper sanitation. It burns my soul and together I believe we can help provide these basic supplies and amenities to children especially orphans and the poorest children in the society. For many in rural Africa, education is a dream. Without solid early childhood education, the cycle of poverty prevails. Global Kids Projects’ early childhood education scholarship will help create education opportunities for the continent’s poorest children. We are planning our first gala November this year on the 1st year anniversary of Lovinah Naturals. To learn more about Lovinah Naturals or reach Joy, please visit www.lovinah.com
STAY CURRENT On Issues That Matters!
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Ama Love Consulting (A.L.C) is a boutique business and government consulting firm based in Houston Texas, with operational asset in Washington, D.C. We specialize in African and Caribbean business development, and we help our clients envision, plan and realize major projects in technology, infrastructure, healthcare, education, energy, and other areas that are affected by government legislation, regulation or funding.
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Real Life. Real Care In Praise Of The Caregiver Essay By Judy Fox
S
ince about three and a half years ago when the tides changed with regard to my mom’s health and independence, I have been involved with many people in the care giving profession: doctors, nurses, nursing assistants, physical, occupational and speech therapists in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and at home. And as in everything, there is a wide diversity of expertise and care that is shown by these men and women of all different backgrounds. In every situation that my mom has been in, certain people really stand out. They can be of any age, gender, nationality or race. What unifies them is their humanity. It’s an undeniable quality that radiates from these unsung heroes who are working sometimes in situations that aren't always supportive, but their love for what they are doing and for those who need help is what predominates. They see and treat other humans with respect. They don’t make assumptions; they don’t talk down to people; and they really, really care. One person who comes to mind is an occupational therapist named Albert. Albert is from Jamaica. He told me the first day he visited my mom after she had a stroke, that he had a father, when he was a lot younger, who had had a stroke too and unfortunately no one explained to him what can happen under those circumstances. He didn’t understand his father's irrational and angry behavior and this lack of understanding deeply affected their relationship. Since that time, he has a special feeling for people who have strokes. I guess you would call it empathy. **********************
A
lbert is warm, affect very professional and kno mom in a beautiful way. H worked her left arm and w ways she had not done si quality: positivity. He rea improve and doesn’t judg appearances.Through his gentleness, he was able t movement in her arm and expressive of his joy whe time in months to be able sounds so simple but it w made that contact: hand
I have enormous gratitud over the past three and a feel the faces of them tha different circumstances. T is given so freely, and ma that human connection is
*****
he won her confidence by his warmth and care and then he hen my mother was first “listened” to my mom; in a rehabilitation hospital after observed carefully what was the stroke and barely able to holding her back. move her whole left side, the therapists tried to get her to He saw that it was fear, and not stand and walk. She was too lack of ability. And so this other scared, weak and I think quality revealed itself: discombobulated to do it. Every flexibility. He tried a different day, the therapist would try way to help my mom using her again doing the same thing to walker that gave her more no avail. security and it worked – she walked! Afterwards, other therapists who came to my mom’s home How thrilling it was to see my quickly gave up trying to help mom, with the aid of a lot of her to walk. So it was really like help, succeed at taking those a miracle the day that Albert steps. It felt like a small was able to guide my mother to miracle. ********************** walk about six or more steps.
W
How did he do it? For one thing tionate, funny and at the same time owledgeable. He worked with my He zeroed in on her stiffness, was able to get her to move it in ince the stroke. That’s the other ally believes people can change and ge by age or first s persistence, expertise and to slowly guide my mom to release d hand. Albert was so happy and en my mom succeeded for the first e to touch her head with her hand. It was quite a joyous moment when she to head finally touching.
de to Albert and to all the caregivers half years. I can literally see and at appeared, like angels, in all Their simple and natural humanity akes such a difference. In the end s everything.
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Herbal/Supplement Tip:
Caregiving & Medication Management
2 Minute Survey If you are among the **46% of family caregivers who are now performing medical/nursing tasks such as wound care, medication management, and **78% are managing multiple medications. As more family caregivers take on the role to care for their loved ones, they are often challenged with multitude of medical terms, many chores, medical lingo, slew of medications with limited knowledge on what to do. Caregivers needs help, they are overwhelmed, lack educational training & resources and CareNovateMag.com want to help.
We want to help bridge the gap. Help us complete this 2 minute survey It does take a village to care.
"Changing your diet first will be far better for your health than taking fistfuls of supplements, or worse, falling victim to prescription drugs." Dr Mercola
CareQuote:
Caregivers, remember, "to give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift" Steve Roland
Actionable Item of the Month:
Per Affordable Care Act, dubbed "Obamacare", #preventive care is free for ALL U.S. #women! No excuses. Its our time to take charge of our #health, be your own #advocate #prevention is way better than #cure!!!
Not Taking Your Medications Because You Can't Afford Them?
Help is here.
CareNovate recently partnered with NeedyMeds.org to launch a free national discount prescription program. This is not an insurance program. This card cannot be used in combination with government programs or private insurance. The estimated savings – (up to 80%) To learn more, please visit www.drugdiscountcardinfo.com
Health Literacy Feature!
6
Simple steps to improving communication with patients & caregivers. Healthcare providers – ever wonder if your patient understands your instructions on how to take their medications , how to monitor their blood pressure at home or what to follow ip on prior to the next doctors visit? Clear communication is the foundation for patients to be able to understand and act on health information. This leads to improved patient safety & better health outcomes. Follow these simple tips by Dr O. Ikezuagu. 1. Use plain, nonmedical language & pictures.
Explain things to patients like you would explain them to your grandmother. For example instead of column A, use column B
Column AColumn B
Analgesic Pain killer Anti-inflammatory Lessens swelling Benign Not cancer Carcinoma Cancer Cardiac problem Heart problem Cellulitis Skin infection Contraception Birth control Enlarge Get bigger Heart failure Heart isn’t pumping well Hypertension High blood pressure Infertility Can’t get pregnant Lateral Outside Lipids Fats in the blood Menopause Stopping periods, change of life Menses Period Monitor Keep track of, keep an eye on Oral By mouth Osteoporosis Soft, breakable bones Referral Send you to another doctor Terminal Going to die Toxic Poisonous
2. Slow down.
Communication can be improved by Source: Joint Commission, HHA, NIH, CDC
speaking slowly, and by spending just a small amount of additional time with each patient. This will help foster a patientcentered approach to the clinician-patient interaction.
3. Show or draw pictures.
Visual images can improve the patient’s recall of ideas.
4. Limit the amount of information provided— and repeat it.
Information is best remembered when it is given in small pieces that are pertinent to the tasks at hand. Repetition further enhances recall.
5. Use the “teach-back” technique.
Confirm that patients understand by asking them to repeat back your instructions.
6. Create a shame-free environment: Encourage questions.
Make patients feel comfortable asking questions. Consider using the Ask-Me-3 program. Enlist the aid of others (patient’s family or friends) to promote understanding.
Prescription Primer
Starting a new medication? Ask your doctor & pharmacist these list of questions By Dr G Erowele
1. What is this medication used for & how is it going to help me? 2. What is the brand name and generic name? 3. How should I take this medication? For how long? 4. When should I take it? What time of day, before or after meals? 5. What side effects may occur & how can I tell these side effects? 6. What do I do if they occur? 7. What does this medication interact with? What medications, supplement, herbals, food, drink, activities should I avoid – and when? 8. How long does it take for this medication to work? How will I know that it is working? 9. What should I do when I miss a dose & what if I overdose? 10. Are there any precautions I should take when I am on this medication and how should I store this medication?
Image: PublicDomainPics at Pixbay.com
Medication Safety (#medsafety)Campaign for Caregivers Join The Campaign! CareNovate Magazine team is asking pharmacists, nurses and physicians via Twitter and other social media avenues to share their medication safety #medsafety tips especially for family caregivers. Our hope is support, educate and empower caregivers.
Why is this important? See the reasons why below
Pharmacists are M edication management is one the Key! Resource of many tasks family caregivers are now Untapped performing for their loved ones. AARP and the United Hospital study reported that 46% of family caregivers are performing medical/nursing tasks such as wound care, medication management, operating medical equipment and more.
Of the caregivers who are performing medical/nursing tasks, 78% are managing multiple medications - 31% of care recipients take 1-5 medications; 46% take 5 – 9; 18% take 10 or more. Low health literacy is another problem. It is a major source of economic inefficiency and drain to our healthcare system/economy - cost in the range of $106 billion to $238 billion annually. This represents between 7 percent and 17 percent of all personal healthcare expenditures.
In 2012, Pharmacists placed second among the country’s most trusted professionals in a Gallup poll. They have retained a spot in the top 3 for the tenth consecutive year. Almost 2 in 3 patients reported that the individual pharmacist plays a key role in which pharmacy they choose, but less than one-third of patients tap into that accessible health resource on a regular basis, according to an exclusive survey conducted by AccentHealth and DSN. More than half of the $500 billion in annual wasteful spending is tied to medication nonadherence, mostly among patients in high-income countries, according to a report prepared for FIP by the IMS Institute for Health Informatics.
.
Source: FDA. AARP, C
Social Health Feature With their highly visible roles in the community, hospitals, organizations & health care system as a whole, studies continues to report that pharmacists can be a key component in medication safety promotion and support. Leveraging pharmacists to address unmet preventive health needs is especially important as we strive to align resources to support healthy behaviors in our current health care delivery environment. We need to do something - Education is the key! The campaign is simple: We are calling and charging all health care providers - pharmacists, nurses and physicians to share 1-2 tips, advice, resource based on their experience for family caregivers. This is also for families, parents, moms and adults caring for their parents.
What's Next? 1. Tweet us via Twitter @carenmag or @carenovate or @carenovatemag Share your #Medsafety tip
2.Email us info@carenovate.com, #medsafety on the Subject area. 3.Ifyour you are not a health care provider or professional, please share via networks or share with those in the health care industry. Please share via Twitter - Calling #HCPs. Reply w/tweet. Send 1 #medsafety tips 4 family #caregivers managing #medications http://Carenmag.com/#blog
4.We will compile all the tips and share it with others - caregivers, organizations.
CDC, Gallup, HHS, Accenthealth, IMS Institute, DSN
We Welcome Writers! Get Featured In Future Editions Of CareNovate Magazine
To get started, Email info@carenovate.com
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empowering caregivers, seniors/elders, sandwich generation families & women become their own health advocate & partner
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CareNovate Magazine Caregiving Advice. Social Health Resources. Medication Safety Tips. Health Literacy Solutions. And Much More
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