Category: Blogs

Staying Safe Amid the Summer Heat

Posted on by Risa Margulies

While summertime brings sunny skies and the chance to spend more time outdoors – especially as families look to reconnect – extreme heat can also disproportionately impact certain populations. Recognizing that older adults are more prone to heat-related health problems, like muscle cramps, headaches, nausea, or even heatstroke, it’s important to prevent or respond to any warm weather issues as they arise.

That’s where Family & Nursing Care’s network of highly trained Caregivers can play a critical role in helping clients avoid any warm-weather health issues. Here are some of the ways they can assist to ensure family’s loved ones are safe during the heat of summer:

  • Hydration: Hydration is key in the summer, especially for older adults. Caregivers can make it easier for clients to drink plenty of fluids during hot summer days by making sure there is plenty of cool water to drink both in the home and when they are outside and by reminding them to drink frequently.

 

  • Proper attire: The best clothing for summer is light weight and made of natural materials like cotton or linen. These materials tend to be more comfortable and help our bodies stay cool. Before outings, Caregivers can help ensure their clients are wearing weather-appropriate clothes and have sunglasses and a hat with them to protect from sunburns, irritated eyes, glaucoma-related sensitivities, skin cancers, and more.

 

  • Heatstroke: Older adults have a harder time regulating their body temperature, making them more prone to heatstroke, which can be quite dangerous. In extreme heat, Caregivers can help their clients avoid serious issues by watching for changes in their condition which can be precursors to heatstroke. Common signs of heat stroke include a body temperature over 104 degrees, headaches, nausea, not sweating despite the heat, dry or flushed skin, and fainting. Older adults with these symptoms should be taken to a cooler indoor space, where they can lie down and have ice packs put on their body. A Caregiver can also call 911.

 

  • Mobility Issues: Even normal day-to-day activities require more energy in the summer heat, making it easier to get tired quickly. For older adults who have mobility issues, this problem is exacerbated. Caregivers can provide mobility support to your loved ones, ensuring they enjoy outdoor weather and don’t get too tired while out and about.

 

“While it’s important for everyone to stay active regardless of the time of year, it’s vital when being outdoors during the summer to take the proper precautions and ensure you are prepared for the warmer weather,” says Rachel Sanford, a Registered Nurse and Director of Nursing for Family & Nursing Care Select. “Older adults are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, which is why it’s very helpful for someone else, like a Caregiver, to be on hand, to assist with the right tools and guidance to help prevent and/or respond quickly to any warm-weather related issues.”

For more information about the services available at Family & Nursing Care, visit the Home Care Services webpage. For more information about the impact of heat on older adults, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Gwendolyn Morris-Smith Receives the MNCHA Caregiver of the Year Award

Posted on by Risa Margulies

On May 14, 2024, during the Maryland-National Capital Homecare Association (MNCHA) Annual Conference held at the Maritime Conference Center in Linthicum Heights, Maryland, Family & Nursing Care’s Gwendolyn Morris-Smith was honored with the prestigious Caregiver of the Year Award. Celebrating caregivers who consistently exceed expectations, Gwendolyn received this award for her dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to meeting her client’s needs.

The ceremony, attended by her daughter, daughter-in-law, and sister, was an overwhelmingly positive experience for Gwendolyn. “It was a feeling I’ve never felt before. It was truly amazing,” she said when reflecting on the emotional impact of the event. Gwendolyn shared her profound gratitude for receiving the award, “The award means a lot to me. Knowing I’m appreciated and recognized brings me great joy and shows I’m making a difference.”

Gwendolyn’s journey into the caregiving profession began with an interest in assisting vulnerable people. “I’ve always had a passion for helping others, and becoming a caregiver allowed me to make a positive impact in people’s lives,” she said. Her clients frequently praise her dedication, which fills her with a deep sense of accomplishment. “It makes me feel fulfilled just knowing I can help do things for them that they no longer may be able to do themselves.”

Gwendolyn’s career with Family & Nursing Care Select began in 2009 when she sought employment with a reputable com

pany upon receiving her permanent resident status in the U.S. “The reputation of the company and the positive feedback I heard from other employees drew me to Family & Nursing Care,” she recalled. Her tenure with the company has been marked by numerous cherished memories, including helping a client experience the joy of dancing for the first time in her life.

Having worked in the industry for over 20 years, Gwendolyn attributes her success to essential qualities, such as compassion, empathy, patience, respect, reliability, and presence. The most rewarding part of her career, Gwendolyn shared, is making a difference in people’s lives. “That’s why I do what I do,” she stated. Her advice to fellow Caregivers is to treat clients with the same respect and care they would want for their own loved ones.

Since starting her career in 2003, Gwendolyn has consistently demonstrated kindness, patience, and a gentle demeanor. Her ability to connect with clients, even those whose families are far away, and her attentiveness to their needs have made her an indispensable part of their lives.

One standout instance of her expertise involved identifying an emergency situation early on that led to life-saving treatment for a client. Her proactive approach, arriving on time and ready for every shift, and her dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic, have all earned her high praise. A client’s family member said of her, “Gwendolyn has been an amazing help during this time, and I can’t thank her enough for everything she has done for both of my parents and especially my mother right now. COVID-19 has made this whole process challenging, and knowing Gwendolyn is there with my mom gives us all great comfort.”

Allison Bates, Director of Care Coordinating for Family & Nursing Care Select, summed up Gwendolyn’s impact by stating, “From day one, Gwendolyn has been dedicated, nurturing, kind, positive, and loving with every client. She is a one-of-a-kind Caregiver who consistently goes above and beyond what is expected. She always makes the best decisions for her clients and truly treats them as if they were her own family.”

Please join us in congratulating Gwendolyn on this incredibly well-deserved honor!

The Continued Trend Towards At-Home Care

Posted on by Risa Margulies

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the approach to care for older adults in the United States. With the continued strain on healthcare systems and a growing desire to prioritize comfort and familiarity, more families are opting for at-home care over traditional hospital, hospice, or nursing home settings. This trend is not only driven by external pressures on the healthcare system but also by an increased recognition of the benefits of older adults living in their own homes.

One significant aspect of this shift is the emergence of hospital-at-home programs. These programs, offered by many leading medical institutions, aim to provide hospital-level care in the comfort of patients’ homes. By leveraging technology and skilled healthcare professionals, hospitals can deliver a wide range of services, from acute medical care to post-surgical recovery, without the need for prolonged hospital stays. This not only reduces the burden on healthcare facilities but also enhances patients’ quality of life by allowing them to remain in familiar surroundings.

A similar trend can also be seen for private duty home care, where statistics reflect the growing popularity of this as a preferred option for older adults. According to recent data, the demand for at-home care services has surged, with a significant increase in the number of families opting for at-home care solutions over traditional nursing home placements. With 10,000 baby boomers turning 65 each day, according to the Census Bureau, and a reported 77% of adults over the age of 50 preferring to “age in place,” this movement is only expected to grow exponentially from here.

Jeff Zukerman, President of Family & Nursing Care, emphasizes the importance of this shift, “At-home care offers an unmatched level of personalized attention and comfort for older adults that can often improve recovery outcomes. At the same time, it’s equally important for home care companies to collaborate with healthcare providers when individuals are discharged to cover any potential gaps and ultimately ensure a successful return to health.”

As one of the oldest and leading home care resources in Maryland and Washington, D.C., Family & Nursing Care’s mission is to help older adults live their fullest independent lives in the comfort of their own homes. For more than 55 years, we’ve assisted tens of thousands of families by providing access to Caregivers who help with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, mobility assistance, errands, meal prep, light housekeeping, medication reminders, companionship, and more.

Driven by a desire to improve patient outcomes, alleviate pressure on healthcare systems, and promote independence and comfort for older adults, the rise of at-home care represents a fundamental change for this industry. And as the demand for at-home care continues to grow, providers like Family & Nursing Care are prepared to play a crucial role in supporting the evolving needs of aging populations and their families.

To learn more about our leading home care services, visit the Why Us? page on our website.

 

The Importance of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month and the Family & Nursing Care Difference

Posted on by Risa Margulies

Worldwide, more than 55 million people, including nearly 7 million in the United States, are living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Unfortunately, that number is projected to rise to nearly 13 million people in America by 2050. That’s why June, which marks Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, is an especially important time to help bring greater attention and understanding of diseases affecting the brain.

While too many people are still unfortunately battling cognitive issues, the good news is that real progress is being made and more options exist than ever before to help those living with this disease. Last year, the first-ever drug designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, Leqembi, hit the market. This year, another Alzheimer’s drug is going through FDA approval, Donanemab, which has also been shown to slow the progression of memory and thinking problems by 22% to 29% in clinical trials.

Even though drugs like Leqembi and Donanemab may represent a major step forward in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and other progressive forms of dementia, they are only intended for people in the very early stages of the disease. Nonetheless, there are additional resources beyond medications to help those affected, including the support of caregivers who can play a significant role in the care and education of patients and families.

“At Family & Nursing Care, we recognize that being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia can be especially troubling to families,” says Kelly Salb, Vice President of Client Services for Family & Nursing Care. “That’s why we offer tailored support and a range of services to help meet client’s needs while giving families peace of mind knowing their loves ones are in good hands.”

The Family & Nursing Care Difference

Family & Nursing Care is a longtime leader in providing access to best-in-class care for older adults living with dementia and other cognitive issues, so they can feel as comfortable as possible. Dementia services available include private, customizable support and companionship for clients based on their individual needs. Our network of highly trained Caregivers has experience supporting clients at different stages of dementia, including:

  • Early-Stage Needs: For those in the early stages of memory loss diseases, Caregivers can provide emotional and daily support, including keeping appointments, assistance with remembering to take medications, and encouraging participation in activities that can help exercise certain brain functions and potentially slow disease progression.
  • Middle-Stage Needs: For those experiencing increased memory trouble, acting out, developing triggers, or otherwise diagnosed with middle-stage dementia needs, Caregivers can assist with daily tasks like grooming, cooking, and household chores. As the disease progresses, Caregivers can also provide services focused on keeping clients comfortable and more at-ease.

With June marking Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, this is an important time to reflect on all the advancements and options available to families now, including home care, to help combat this disease. To learn more about Family & Nursing Care’s Alzheimer’s and dementia care offerings, visit the Home Care and Alzheimer’s/Dementia webpage, or to learn more about Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, visit the Alzheimer’s Association.

 

Servicing More Clients in Crisis

Posted on by Risa Margulies

As home care needs increasingly become more urgent and unpredictable, families often find themselves grappling with the challenge of securing reliable caregiving assistance at a moment’s notice. With the home care industry evolving into a 24/7, 365 days-a-year necessity, the demand for swift, effective crisis care solutions has never been more critical.

At Family & Nursing Care, nearly 75% of individuals reaching out to us are urgently seeking a Caregiver within the next 48 hours, particularly following a hospital discharge or after a fall occurs. Recognizing this growing need, we pride ourselves on being equipped with the staffing, resources, and services to respond promptly and proficiently in any situation. In fact, in January 2024 alone, we provided 55 clients with access to a Caregiver within 24 hours. Some of these clients needed assistance for a few days, others for much longer, all of which we accommodated.

“In a landscape where the need for crisis care continues to escalate, Family & Nursing Care strives to go above and beyond in our response to clients and their family members facing crisis – from the first point of contact with us and throughout the entire care journey,” says Jeff Zukerman, President of Family & Nursing Care. “Our unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with our strategic approach to supporting clients, ensures that families receive the assistance they need regardless of the situation.”

Addressing the Urgent Need

At Family & Nursing Care, we understand the urgency and stress that accompanies the quest for immediate caregiver support. That’s why we offer unparalleled care solutions and a diverse set of teams to address any home care need, especially the escalating demand for crisis care:

  • Expansive Caregiver Network: With over 1,500 experienced Caregivers in our pool, Family & Nursing Care offers families an extensive selection to choose from. Each Caregiver undergoes rigorous screening to ensure they possess the skills and compassion necessary to deliver exceptional care.
  • Dedicated Coordination Team: Our robust team of Care Coordinating Managers is adept at managing complex scheduling demands and swiftly matching Caregivers with families based on their unique requirements. From coordinating last-minute placements to facilitating seamless transitions, our Coordinators are committed to delivering personalized support every step of the way.
  • Client Services Managers: Our Client Services Managers work closely with families to understand their preferences, values, and specific care needs. By fostering strong relationships and open communication, they ensure that client expectations are not only met, but exceeded.
  • Comprehensive Intake Process: Our intake team is trained to ask the right questions and gather essential information to assess each client’s situation comprehensively. By understanding the nuances of their needs and preferences, we can tailor our care solutions to provide the highest level of support and comfort.

The Family & Nursing Care Difference

We specialize in navigating the complexities of crisis situations with precision and efficiency, and our approach is rooted in strategic planning, rapid response, and effective coordination. Outside of our unparalleled strategy, we encompass a holistic approach to enhancing quality of life and fostering independence. Whether it’s providing access to Caregivers to assist with daily activities, companionship, or medication reminders, Family & Nursing Care is dedicated to empowering individuals to live life on their own terms, in the comfort and familiarity of their homes.

With a vast network of experienced Caregivers – in addition to our Care Coordinating Managers, Client Services Managers, and Intake teams – Family & Nursing Care can mobilize quickly to meet urgent care demands. Whether it is providing round-the-clock assistance following a hospital discharge or helping to address unexpected health complications, we work to help ensure that families receive the support they need, when they need it most.

To learn more about Family & Nursing Care’s crisis care offerings or any other services, contact us or visit our Home Care Services webpage.

Meet our Caring Client Services Team

Posted on by Risa Margulies

At Family & Nursing Care, we are constantly inspired by the compassionate and devoted people who work with us. That’s why, from time to time, we want to shine a spotlight on some of the exceptional teams and people who help create our care-focused culture. Today, we want to highlight our Client Services team, who play a crucial role in ensuring each client and their family receives the highest quality of care they desire and deserve.

Our team of highly trained Client Service Managers serve as liaisons, educators, listeners, and problem solvers to help meet clients’ caregiving needs every step of the way. They are responsible for communicating with clients, families, and healthcare professionals, while working in tandem with Care Coordinating Managers to match the right Caregiver to each client. In addition, the Client Services Department offers Supervisory Nurses who support Family & Nursing Care Select clients and Caregivers. The Supervisory Nurses meet with clients and their loved ones to professionally assess their needs and create a Plan of Care for Caregivers to follow, as well as make home visits and provide ongoing supervision of home care services.

To learn more about the Client Services department, check out the following frequently asked questions:

How do client services managers help guide clients and their families through the home care experience?

 At Family & Nursing Care, every client services manager has a high level of training to serve as a liaison, educator, active listener and problem solver for clients and their families. Every step of the way, they serve as the primary point of contact for all clients’ home care needs, both practical and emotional. Their responsibilities include making personal visits to clients, whether that be in their home, hospital, rehab, or another setting. Through visits, they get to know the client as well as the client’s preferences and priorities so that they can help guide clients through any challenges they may face. Above all, client services managers are dedicated to maintaining ongoing communication to ensure the client’s home care needs are continually being met.

Is there a nurse who oversees client care?

A supervisory nurse is assigned to every client who chooses to receive home care through Family & Nursing Care Select. Upon starting care, a nurse meets with the client and their family to professionally assess their needs and create a fully customized plan of care for the caregiver(s). In addition to routinely checking in with caregivers about a client’s well-being, supervisory nurses also visit clients in their homes to provide ongoing supervision of services, skills support, and education for caregivers. They re-assess the plan as needed. This nurse oversight is welcomed by the clients’ family members, who find the extra attention comforting. Many family members live out of the area. Even if they live close by, their schedules may not allow for the personal oversight of their loved one’s care.

Family & Nursing Care is a leading resource for private duty home care services in Maryland and Washington, D.C. Since 1968, we’ve been helping older adults maintain their independence and quality of life in the comfort of their own home. To learn more about how our team can help, visit our Client Services Managers webpage.

Family & Nursing Care Continues Northern Expansion

Posted on by Risa Margulies

As a trusted and leading home care resource for over 55 years, Family & Nursing Care has been steadfast in its commitment to providing access to top-notch, personalized care to older adults in Maryland and Washington, D.C. Now, the company is proud to announce its continued expansion into Howard County and Baltimore, with plans to soon bring its services to Pennsylvania.

Even before its expansion into Central Maryland, Family & Nursing Care has been partnering with Allyson Stanton of Stanton Aging Solutions for nearly 20 years. Previously as a social worker, and now as an aging life care manager, Allyson works with Family & Nursing Care frequently, reaching out to coordinate care for her clients. She sees the company’s growth in the area as nothing but a major positive for the families with whom she works and other older adults in Howard County and Baltimore. “I think it’s a fantastic idea,” she says. “They have a proven track record of helping people. I trust them implicitly, and their expansion means more families will have access to exceptional home care.”

As for what families themselves think about the Caregivers who work with Family & Nursing Care, Allyson notes the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. “Communication is seamless, scheduling is a breeze, and families don’t have to worry about a thing,” she says. “The Caregivers are not only skilled but also compassionate, making them a perfect fit for our clients.” Allyson also noted that, since she is a care manager, she represents her clients and not a specific organization. “When we refer to a company, it’s a vetted experience we trust. There are over 2,000 companies registered in Maryland to choose from, so for us to trust Family & Nursing Care speaks volumes.”

The Family & Nursing Care Difference

As Family & Nursing Care continues to expand its reach – whether in Central Maryland or soon in a new area altogether in Pennsylvania – we remain dedicated to our core values of compassion, integrity, and excellence in care. With a network of highly trained Caregivers and a client-centered approach, we strive to set the standard for home care in the region. Here’s more of what sets us apart:

  • For 55 years and counting, we’ve assisted tens of thousands of families by providing access to Caregivers who help with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, mobility assistance, errands, meal prep, light housekeeping, medication reminders, companionship, and more.
  • Our longstanding relationships with hospitals, senior living communities, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care insurance companies allow us to liaise in the coordination of what can often be an overwhelming process for clients and families. Whether it’s coordinating home care when a sudden need arises or supporting families following a hospital discharge, our team stands ready to support them 24/7, 365 days a year.
  • Only the top 8% of Caregivers who apply meet our unwavering standards of excellence, ensuring every Caregiver we work with is the best-of-the-best.
  • Given Family & Nursing Care’s record as a nine-time winner of Bethesda Magazine’s Best of Bethesda Readers’ Poll, an A+ rated company by the Better Business Bureau, and a Circle of Excellence recipient by the National Business Research Institute, it’s no wonder why more than 25% of Family & Nursing Care employees have been with the company for over 10 years.

To learn more about Family & Nursing Care’s leading offerings, check out our Home Care Services webpage.

Springing into Action – The Importance of Physical Activity

Posted on by Risa Margulies

As we age, our bodies undergo numerous changes, making it increasingly vital to prioritize physical activity for overall health and well-being. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, older adults are at a higher risk for chronic health conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, falls are a prevalent concern, with one in three older adults experiencing a fall each year, often resulting in serious injuries. With winter fading away and spring blossoming, now is the perfect time to re-focus on the importance of physical activity for older adults.

Staying active plays a crucial role in promoting longevity and enhancing quality of life as we age. Rachel Sanford, a Registered Nurse and Director of Nursing for Family & Nursing Care Select, emphasizes the significance of maintaining an active lifestyle.

“The less active we are, the more difficult it becomes to stay motivated to engage in activities,” she says. “Decreased physical activity can lead to muscle loss, poor exercise tolerance, and increased risk of falls or injuries.”

Engaging in regular physical activity not only benefits older adults physically, including cardiovascular health, but also contributes to their mental and emotional well-being. Increased physical activity, with which Caregivers can assist, can help boost someone’s mood, decrease stress, and enhance alertness. Sanford also underscores the importance of recognizing age-related changes and embracing assistive devices or Caregiver assistance. “Falls in the older adult population can be catastrophic,” she warns. “Utilizing any resource available to minimize the risk of falls is vital to allow older adults to remain injury-free and living independently.”

When it comes to choosing activities, low-impact exercises tend to be most appealing for older adults. Swimming, chair yoga, seated exercises, and wall Pilates are excellent options that minimize strain on aging bodies while still providing significant health benefits. Sanford recommends that clients work on their mobility as often and as safely possible, ideally daily. She also stresses that everyone has unique needs and, while going for a long walk or to the gym may work well for one person, standing from a seated position 10 times a day or changing positions in bed frequently may work better for another person. When it comes to exercise, Sanford likes to quote Newton’s First Law of Motion, “An object at rest will stay at rest, and an object in motion will stay in motion, so let’s get moving.”

At the end of the day, prioritizing physical activity for older adults is not just about staying fit — it’s about preserving independence, enhancing quality of life, and reducing the risk of falls and injuries. With help from qualified and supportive Caregivers, clients can receive the encouragement they need to stay active, in addition to other services, such as assistance with bathing, dressing, errands, meal prep and light housekeeping, medication reminders, and companionship.

For more information on how Family & Nursing Care can help, check out the Mobility Assistance webpage.

 

Family & Nursing Care Earns 2024 NBRI Circle of Excellence Award

Posted on by Risa Margulies

NBRI Circle of Excellence Recipient AwardFamily & Nursing Care is thrilled to receive the National Business Research Institute’s (NBRI) Circle of Excellence Award, which recognizes organizations for their outstanding achievements in client, staff, and caregiver satisfaction. This prestigious award was determined by data collected throughout 2023 and is especially meaningful because it is a result of feedback from our own community.

 

With a focus on continuously learning and improving, Family & Nursing Care will use the responses from the NBRI survey to help our team better understand the needs of clients, Caregivers, and staff, enabling us to continue providing each group with the best possible experiences. The Circle of Excellence award is further validation that our approach centering around clients, Caregivers, and staff makes a significant impact, and we are proud to share some key insights from the NBRI survey:

 

 

  • Caregivers categorized 8 out of the 10 topics addressed in the survey as strengths, with Job Satisfaction and Interactions with Office Staff as the highest satisfaction ratings among the Caregivers. None of the topics were categorized by Caregivers as weaknesses or threats. Additionally, two items that scored above 90% were “I am proud to tell people I work with/for Family & Nursing Care” and “Overall, I like being a caregiver with Family & Nursing Care.”
  • Our office staff survey gauges 14 different areas and all 14 were identified as strengths, with Supervision scoring at a best-in-class level of 90% or above satisfaction rating. Employees also rated the culture of the office at Family & Nursing Care highly with 93% responding that they think what they do is important to the overall success of the company.
  • New clients expressed 96% satisfaction with the initial intake process and 95% are satisfied with the office staff and their Client Services Manager. 95% of respondents who have been with Family & Nursing Care for a year or more find their Caregiver’s skills a good match for their needs. Among all clients, 98% would recommend Family & Nursing Care to a friend or family members.

This marks the ninth-consecutive year in which Family & Nursing Care has received the NBRI Circle of Excellence Award. As a trusted and leading home care resource in Maryland and Washington, D.C. for more than 55 years, our team prides itself on consistently assessing customer and worker experiences so we can continue to meet the needs of clients, Caregivers, and staff, both today and tomorrow.

To learn more about our award-winning culture, visit the Family & Nursing Care Why Us webpage.