Coronavirus Information

Friday, May 29, 2020 – RVNAhealth has been monitoring news and updates on the COVID-19 front released by organizations including CDC, WHO, FDA, State of CT, and other news sources. Click the button below for the latest news and updates.

View Latest News and Updates ››

At RVNAhealth, the health and safety of our patients and team is always a top priority.  Amid the concerns around Coronavirus, we are ever-monitoring the situation, reinforcing our standard health care protocols both within the RVNAhealth building as well as with our field team, and taking additional steps for extra vigilance. 

Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. In additional to our internal measures, we remind all individuals of the following best practices to help keep yourself and others healthy: 

Learn more at CDC.gov
  • “Stay home, Stay safe,” per Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont’s executive order for non-essential workers to not report to their workplaces.
  • If you must leave your home, do not travel in groups.
  • Keep at least six feet away from others.
  • Cancel/avoid non-essential gatherings of any size.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after visiting the restroom; before eating; after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing or touching your face.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue, then discard the tissue in the trash. Clean your hands AGAIN.
  • Use alcohol gel hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
  • Utilize disinfectant wipes to wipe down high-touch areas such as counters, keyboards, doorknobs and other areas with frequent hand exposure.
  • Keep hand cleansers with you.
  • If you are sick, stay home; call (do not immediately visit) your health care provider for next steps; limit visitors.
  • Create a household plan of action in case of household illness or disruption of daily activities due to COVID-19 in the community.
  • Minimize trips to stores and other public places by keeping an advance supply of medications and groceries on hand.

RVNAhealth COVID-19 Newsletter Updates

The Pulse: May, 2020 – Caring for a Loved One with COVID-19; Daily Living Tips from Our Team

The Pulse: April 23, 2020 – A Video Tribute; Recent Updates; Rehab Center News

The Pulse: April 15, 2020 – Tip of the Day; Recent Updates; Staff Spotlights;

April 2020: The People Edition

The Pulse: March 31, 2020 – RVNAhealth Offers Advanced Care Planning to the Community

The Pulse: March 24, 2020 – RVNAhealth Operations Update; Ask the Chief Clinical Officer; Request for iPads and IPhones

The Pulse: March 19, 2020 – Call for PPE; Additional Statewide Closures

The Pulse: March 9, 2020 – How Infections Occur; Standard Health Protocols; CDC Guidance

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) and feel you may have been exposed to the coronavirus, please stay home and call your health care provider or your local Health Department to discuss your options. The CDC provides guidance on symptoms and what to do if you feel sick. Download the CDC’s COVID-19 Fact Sheet from the CDC in English, Spanish, or Chinese.

Learn more at cdc.gov ››

Video: How to Wash Your Hands

This video is silent, but the messages are loud and clear. Here are valuable insights from the CDC into the hows and whys of proper hand washing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d914EnpU4Fo

For further information or with questions, please contact BeWELL@RVNAhealth.org.

Brand New Day. Brand New …

Happy Multigenerational Family

RVNAhealth logoEffective Saturday, October 5, 2019, the Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association (RVNA) has changed our name to RVNAhealth. The name change reflects our breadth of services and regional reach, both of which have expanded significantly in the last decades.

RVNAhealth currently serves 35+towns in Connecticut, and offers care and wellness services for all ages, stages and levels of health.  The name change is the culmination of a strategic Rebranding initiative that was launched in 2014. 

Explains Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, RVNAhealth President & CEO, “’Rebranding’ was identified at our 2014 strategic retreat when we recognized that there was an increasing disconnect between our direction – who we are, what we do, where we do it, and where we’re headed – and the name by which we call ourselves.  It warranted examination and action.”

The Evolution of RVNAhealth

RVNAhealth was founded in 1914 as the ‘District Nursing Association’ with a single nurse traveling by foot to serve Ridgefield families in their homes. Over the decades, the organization added community wellness services, as well as public health services for the town of Ridgefield.  Staff increased, offices moved, new towns were added to the service area, and the organization’s name was tweaked -– more than once.

The ‘District Nursing Association’ became the ‘Visiting Nurse Association of Ridgefield’ in 1994 and then the ‘Ridgefield Visiting Nursing Association’ in 2006.

The organization’s growth since 2006 has been particularly remarkable. 

Non-medical caregivers, an outpatient rehabilitation and wellness center, hospice services and an increasing wealth of prevention and wellness services have been added to the organization’s ‘continuum of care.’

Additionally, the RVNAhealth Center for Exceptional Care in Ridgefield CT opened in 2016, offering rehabilitation, nursing services, nutritional counseling and educational programs all on-premises – not to mention housing the administrative staff.

“Our growth has been very organic, in that we have added services in direct response to patient needs and natural evolutions in the landscape of healthcare,” says Santoro. “We have bolstered and refined our services that aid recovery and recuperation, plus added services that focus on prevention, independence, comfort and end-of-life care.” 

It was during this growth spurt that the Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association ‘outgrew’ our name. “As we examined the name, through internal analysis, focus groups, ideation sessions and competitive analysis,” explains Santoro, “it was clear that the geographic and service limitations of the name made it very confusing to the very people we were aiming to serve. It was time for another change.”

Onward Ho!

The new RVNAhealth name and brand are less a shift in direction, and more a formalization of the direction and course the agency has already taken. The new name retains the RVNA legacy and reputation, while expressing the umbrella under which all services reside: Health.  

In addition to the name change, the organization has redefined our overall brand to convey the comprehensive and integrated approach that RVNAhealth brings to care and wellness services.  A new tagline, For Lifelong Care and Wellness, has been added; the look and feel have been updated; and services have been re-categorized to represent the continuum of care that is unique to RVNAhealth. 

The new categories, the WELLs, include:

BEWELL:                     Services to Keep You Healthy

GETWELL:                  Services to Recover your Best Health

STAYWELL:                 Services to Remain Safely in Your Home

COMFORTWELL:       Hospice Care to Provide Comfort and Peace

All current RVNAhealth services reside under these categories. 

No Item Unturned …

The name change announcement was made at the annual RVNAhealth Autumn Dinner on Saturday, October 5, 2019 to an audience of over 200 close friends and supporters.  Following the announcement, the rollout of the brand new name and identify begins with a new website, social media sites, clinical apparel; building signage; printed materials, email addresses, stationery …. You name it, it needs to be updated!

Enjoy the video and let us know what you think!

I

Navigating Communication Challenges in Dementia Care – Ridgefield – FREE

RVNAhealth Dementia Education & Resources Program

Navigating Communication Challenges in Dementia Care
Thursday, March 6th
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Ridgefield Library, 472 Main Street, Ridgefield

Register <<HERE>> To Attend

Join RVNAhealth for this 3-Part Series at the Ridgefield Library focusing on Cognitive Decline and Dementia Care

Part 2: Navigating Communication Challenges in Dementia Care. Effective communication is vital in providing quality care for individuals living with dementia. Join us for an informative session with Gigi Weiss, Senior Director of Community Rehabilitation Services, and Danielle Taibi, Occupational Therapist and Dementia Specialist. They will share essential strategies to enhance both verbal and non-verbal interactions, ensuring that caregivers can connect meaningfully with their loved ones.

Explore the stages of dementia and discover key considerations for engaging with individuals at each stage. Learn practical tools to manage challenging behaviors and foster deeper connections, ultimately enhancing the caregiving experience for both patients and caregivers. This session will equip you with valuable insights into effective communication strategies, including tailored approaches for different stages and a focus on goals during the end stages of dementia care. Don’t miss this opportunity to make daily interactions more effective and meaningful!

Danielle Taibi, MOTR/L, CDP

Danielle Taibi, OTR/L, CDP, Occupational Therapist and Dementia Specialist, RVNAhealth
RVNAhealth is fortunate to have Danielle Taibi, a highly impactful speaker and compassionate practitioner, whose thoughtful care has made a profound difference for countless patients and families. With over 8 years of experience in occupational therapy and home health supervision, Danielle has become a trusted figure in dementia care, known for her ability to connect with audiences on topics that truly resonate with their lives.
As a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) and Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer, Danielle’s approach goes beyond immediate care. She excels in thinking ahead to what patients and their families will need as they navigate the challenges of dementia, providing support that is proactive and personalized. Her deep understanding of the disease, coupled with her caring nature, ensures that those in her care receive not only expert treatment but also a path forward that considers the well-being of the whole family.

Gigi Weiss, MSPT, CDP, CKTP, Senior Director of Community Rehabilitation Services, RVNAhealth
Gigi Weiss, a licensed physical therapist and Certified Dementia Care Practitioner (CDP), has been a transformative force at RVNAhealth for over a decade. Beginning as the Director of the Rehabilitation and Wellness Center, Gigi expanded the center’s operations, growing the therapy team, and establishing it as a hub for advanced rehabilitative care. Now, in her role as Senior Director of Community Rehabilitation Services, she continues to lead with innovation and dedication.

Gigi’s commitment to excellence earned her the prestigious Innovation Award from the Connecticut Association for Healthcare at Home (CAHCH) Annual Conference. She is recognized for introducing cutting-edge programs like LSVT Big and Loud for Parkinson’s patients and incorporating digital tools to enhance traditional therapeutic methods.

In addition to her leadership, Gigi is beloved by patients and colleagues alike for her hands-on approach, often stepping back into the therapy center to provide care as a physical therapist when needed. As a community outreach educator, she is committed to raising awareness about rehabilitation and dementia care, making a lasting impact both within and beyond RVNAhealth.

Cognitive Decline and Dementia: The Importance of Early Evaluation – Ridgefield – FREE

RVNAhealth Dementia Education & Resources Program

Cognitive Decline and Dementia: The Importance of Early Evaluation with Dr. Alison McElhone
Thursday, February 13th
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Ridgefield Library, 472 Main Street, Ridgefield

Register <<HERE>> To Attend

Join RVNAhealth for this 3-Part Series at the Ridgefield Library focusing on Cognitive Decline and Dementia Care

Part 1: Understanding the early signs of dementia can be crucial for effective care and planning. In this enlightening session, Dr. Alison McElhone, Geriatrician, will explore the various types of dementia, their prevalence, and the underlying brain pathology that contributes to cognitive decline. She will discuss key risk factors, including genetic influences, to help you identify early warning signs and explain why primary care may not be the most suitable setting for a comprehensive evaluation.

Dr. McElhone will guide you through the evaluation process, emphasizing the importance of early detection and assessment in accessing appropriate resources and support. While Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia cannot be treated, early evaluation can significantly impact the management of symptoms and improve quality of life for patients and caregivers. Whether you’re a caregiver or concerned about your own cognitive health, this session will equip you with vital knowledge to navigate the complexities of dementia care.

To Attend, Please Register <<HERE>>

Dr. Alison McElhone
Dr. Alison McElhone, Geriatrician, Stamford Health

Dr. Alison McElone Bio: Alison L. McElhone, MD, specializes in geriatric medicine and offers experienced, compassionate care to all patients. She takes a special interest in dementia evaluation and management, medication management and palliative and hospice care. Dr. McElhone earned her medical degree from State University of New York Downstate College of Medicine. She completed medical school summa cum laude and with research commendations. Afterward, she completed an internal medicine residency at Stony Brook Hospital and performed a geriatric medicine fellowship there too. While still in New York, Dr. McElhone worked in the primary and extended care departments of the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center. In 2008, she moved to Saginaw, Michigan with her family and joined Synergy Medical Group, which later became the primary clinical teaching location for Central Michigan University (CMU). During her seven years with CMU, Dr. McElhone saw patients in multiple settings, including office/clinic, home, hospice, assisted living and nursing rehabilitation centers. In 2015, she returned to the East Coast and joined Griffin Faculty Physicians where she continued to pursue her interest in geriatric medicine. In this role she evaluated and managed older adult patients presenting to the Geriatric Assessment Center and patients in skilled nurse settings. In evaluating and treating her older patients, Dr. McElhone understands the impact of social factors, mood and cognitive disorders, chronic pain and functional impairment on quality of life and healthcare utilization. Her individualized approach that addresses these issues, together with treatment of the patient’s chronic medical conditions, results in improved outcomes and quality of life. Dr. McElhone is dedicated to the ongoing care and well-being of her patients, helping them pursue fulfilling lives with family and friends.

 

How to Live a Healthy Brain Lifestyle – Ridgefield – FREE

brain health

How to Live a Healthy Brain Lifestyle
Wednesday, January 22nd
1:00 – 2:00pm
Ridgefield Library, 472 Main St, Ridgefield

Join RVNAhealth’s Susan DiGregorio, M.A. CCC-SLP, for an engaging discussion on aging and brain health. In this informative session, you’ll discover the key risk factors associated with cognitive decline and learn how lifestyle choices and environmental influences can impact your brain function as you age.

Susan will also share practical, evidence-based strategies to help you proactively protect your brain health and boost memory function. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable insights and actionable steps that can enhance your cognitive wellness and overall quality of life.

Don’t miss out on this chance to equip yourself with knowledge that can make a meaningful difference in your health journey!

REGISTER <<HERE>> TO ATTEND

 

Susan DiGregorio, Speech TherapistAbout Susan: 

Susan DiGregorio, SLP, is a Speech-Language Pathologist who works with our adult patients at the RVNAhealth Therapy Center. Susan specializes in the rehabilitation of swallowing, speech, language, cognition and voice following neurological, traumatic injuries and treatment for head and neck cancers.

Susan joined RVNAhealth in 2017 as a therapist in both in-home and outpatient settings. She then pursued in-home therapy full time before returning to outpatient therapy, where she enjoys the opportunity to help her motivated clients set and achieve their goals. Prior to RVNAhealth, Susan worked for eight years in a sub-acute setting.

Susan earned her B.A in psychology from SUNY New Paltz in 2004, and her M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from CUNY Lehman in 2011. She holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner.

The Benefits of Music Therapy – Sherman – FREE

music therapy

The Benefits of Music Therapy
Thursday, January 9th
12:00-1:00pm
Sherman Senior Center, 8 CT-37, Sherman

Please join Sherrye Platt, MA, MT-BC, RVNAhealth Music Therapist for a fun and interactive program outlining the benefits of music therapy on brain health.

  • How the brain responds to music stimulation
  • The benefits of music on the aging process
  • Group music-making activities
  • No previous musical experience is necessary

To Register, please email: seniorcenter@townofshermanct.org or call: 860-354-2414 ext 1

Interesting Article from Harvard Health Publishing: Why is Music Good for the Brain?

Sherrye Platt, Music Therapy at RVNAhealthAbout Sherrye Platt: Sherrye While an undergraduate at Montclair State University (MSU), where she studied to be a music teacher and eventually earned her bachelor’s, Platt was introduced to music as an evidence-based therapeutic tool being leveraged across disciples including mental health, military populations, trauma victims, and those afflicted with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Platt quickly re-focused her studies to leverage the power of music to improve people’s lives. Platt earned her master’s degree at world-renowned Berklee College of Music

Helping You Meet The Dementia Challenge – Danbury – FREE

Alzheimer's and Dementia Support

Helping You Meet the Dementia Challenge

Thursday, November 14th
2:30 – 3:30pm
Elmwood Hall Senior Center – 10 Elmwood Pl, Danbury
Open to the Public

Caring for someone suffering from memory loss? Interested in learning more about the condition? Join us at the Danbury Elmwood Hall Senior Center for a lecture focusing on the causes and symptoms of dementia and learn strategies to better cope with the challenge.

Director of Rehabilitation, Gigi Weiss, and Occupational Therapist and Dementia Specialist, Danielle Taibi, will explain how to recognize the symptoms and stages of the condition, and discuss coping techniques that can be implemented during the early stages. The team will also discuss how to recognize when professional assistance and intervention may be necessary, along with strategies to make challenges and transitions more manageable.

To register, contact the Danbury Senior Center at 203-797-4686.

Gigi Weiss, Director of Rehabilitation Services
Gigi Weiss, Director of Rehabilitation Services, CDP
Danielle Taibi, MOTR/L, CDP

Legal and Financial Planning with Josh Weinshank and Amy Feder – Ridgefield – FREE

legal and financial planning presentation

Legal and Financial Planning with Josh Weinshank and Amy Feder
Wednesday, November 6th
10:00am – 12:00pm
RVNAhealth, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield

As we age, navigating the complexities of legal and financial matters becomes essential for peace of mind. To offer guidance and support, Josh Weinshank, Senior Partner at Cramer & Anderson, LLP, and Amy Feder, RVNAhealth Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Geriatric Care Manager, will lead an informative session covering key topics like legal considerations, financial planning, and accessing community resources. This event provides a valuable opportunity to gain insights into preparing for long-term care needs, empowering attendees to make informed decisions with confidence and clarity.

Please Register <<HERE>> to Attend

A Celebration of Mission and Community

A great time was had by all, and we want to share this heartfelt thank you to all those who supported our 2024 Autumn Dinner.

It was a true celebration of mission and community at the annual RVNAhealth Autumn Dinner, held on September 26th at Le Chateau in South Salem, NY.  Guests enjoyed cocktails & hors d’oeuvres, live music, dinner, dancing, our ever-popular “Date Night for a Year” raffle, and our new Golden Paddle opportunity to bid in a very exciting Live Auction!  Thank you to our 250 guests, 47 sponsors, 41 advertisers, our incredibly dedicated volunteer Autumn Dinner Committee, and countless others who contributed in many ways for making the event a great success.

We were thrilled to recognize RVNAhealth President and CEO, Theresa Santoro, for her 25 years of service and visionary leadership. Joining the agency as a visiting nurse 25 years ago, she now leads an organization that continues to thrive under her direction. RVNAhealth has grown to become a regional healthcare provider, serving more than 5,000 patients and clients annually across western Connecticut.

RVNAhealth is proud to offer home health and hospice care, Well-Child Clinics and Nurse Family Partnership for children, young mothers and families in need, and a Chronic Care program to help our vulnerable uninsured and underinsured neighbors. Funds raised at the Autumn Dinner allow us to forward our mission of compassion and provide the best possible care to those we serve. If you weren’t able to attend the event, it’s never too late to help and make a meaningful impact.

Please enjoy this video which is a testament to “Why RVNAhealth?” and beautiful stories honoring Theresa’s special place in the hearts of the communities we serve.

 

Grief, Healing and the Holidays – Ridgefield – FREE

grief, healing and the holidays presentation

Grief, Healing and the Holidays
Tuesday, November 12th
1:00pm – 2:30pm
RVNAhealth, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield

 

The holidays can become hard for many as grief tends to cling to us. It doesn’t just affect us personally, It also becomes intertwined with specific moments and locations. RVNAhealth’s “Grief, Healing and the Holidays” presentation will include discussions covering how to cope with the emotions and feelings of the season, how to handle holiday traditions, and what to do differently – and the same.

Garrett Walkup, RVNAhealth Manager of Bereavement, Social Work and Pastoral Care Services,  will cover a number of helpful suggestions to help you with coping and healing.  Strategies such as mindset, being kind to yourself, asking for support, creating boundaries, and more will be covered.

This program is open to all members of the community and is intended to offer support through the holiday season for those who have experienced a loss. If you have any questions about this presentation, please feel free to contact Garrett by email at gwalkup@rvnahealth.org.

Please Register <<HERE>> to Attend.

Cognition and Brain Health – Sherman – FREE

brain health

Cognition and Brain Health
Friday, November 8
11:00am – 12:00pm
Sherman Senior Center, 8 Rt 37 Center

Join RVNAhealth’s Susan DiGregorio, M.A CCC-SLP, for an informative discussion about aging and brain health. Learn about risk factors for cognitive decline and proactive steps you can take to protect brain health and boost memory function.

Please register to attend by contacting Sherman Senior Center – Email: seniorcenter@townofshermanct.org or Call: 860-354-2414 ext 1

Three Delicious Dishes To LOVE this Autumn: Food Demo and Tasting with Cathy Katin-Grazzini – Ridgefield

plant-based cooking

Three Delicious Dishes To LOVE this Autumn: Food Demo and Tasting

with Cathy Katin-Grazzini
Friday, November 1st
2:00 – 4:00pm
RVNAhealth, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield

Love the foods that love you and the planet back! Discover the world of sustainable, plant-based cooking with Cathy, a seasoned chef, nutritional coach, and cookbook author!

Cathy creates mouthwatering, low-carbon dishes that are as good for your health as they are for the planet. She has authored two cookbooks and is passionate about teaching how simple, delicious food can make a big impact.

With recipes inspired by global favors, she will share the profound environmental and health benefits of a plant-based diet.

In this class, you will learn how to make a warming Lebanese lentil soup, crispy “Chickless” nuggets, and rich Spanish-style hot chocolate – perfect for cozy Autumn days!

Don’t miss this interactive and informative session!

Price: $55 per Class

Register HERE to attend.

Cathy Katin-Grazzini
Cathy Katin-Grazzini, Plant-Based Chef and Author