Highlighting the Hospice Conversation

highlighting the hospice conversation

Jimmy Carter and his decision to enter hospice care has taken prominent placement in national news over the past six months. His decision to make public his election for hospice care has had a profound impact on how people perceive and discuss end-of-life care. Despite assumptions that hospice care is a short-term arrangement primarily for individuals at the brink of passing away, Carter’s case has demonstrated that hospice care can extend for a longer period and truly focuses on patient quality of life.

Current statistics show that only slightly more than half of those patients eligible for hospice care opt to receive it. At the age of 98, the former president’s choice to enter hospice care has led to a shift in public understanding. His family’s reports of him enjoying simple pleasures, such as ice cream and staying engaged with the activities of the Carter Center, highlight that hospice care can provide comfort and maintain a sense of normalcy for patients, rather than solely concentrating on medical interventions.

Carter’s openness about his journey has prompted conversations about hospice care’s benefits and debunked common misconceptions. Hospice care isn’t solely about imminent death; it centers on enhancing a patient’s well-being, managing pain, and emotional support for both patient and family. Carter’s situation underscores that hospice care can offer a higher quality of life for patients who opt to prioritize comfort and quality of life over aggressive medical treatments.

By openly sharing his care choice, Jimmy Carter has contributed to breaking down barriers surrounding discussions on death and end-of-life care. His example encourages a broader dialogue about the importance of making informed decisions regarding care options, advocating for individual preferences, and recognizing that hospice can offer solace, dignity, and a higher quality of life during one’s final stages.

For more information from RVNAhealth on myths and frequently asked questions about hospice care, visit our page.

Celebrate and Support RVNAhealth at Autumn Dinner 2023

RVNAhealth Autumn Dinner 2023

RVNAhealth will host its annual Autumn Dinner on Saturday evening, September 30 at Silver Spring Country Club in Ridgefield, CT. The Board of Directors, Autumn Dinner Committee, and friends of the organization look forward to celebrating the meaningful work of RVNAhealth and the continuum of care the agency provides throughout 35+ Connecticut communities.

Guests will enjoy evening cocktails and live music by Nick DePuy on the patio, bourbon tasting sponsored by Ancona’s Wines & Liquors, and dinner. A live auction hosted by entertainer, Tom Pesce, will include spectacular prizes, including tickets to a NY Giants game in a fully catered suite, a Loon Mountain ski vacation package, dinner for 8 catered by renowned local chefs Sarah and Bernard Bouissou and more!

Our ever-popular “Date Night for a Year” raffle is back! The always exciting date nights include a spa experience for two at Adam Broderick Salon & Spa, ACT of Connecticut and Danbury Hat Tricks tickets, and gift certificates to fabulous area shops, inns, and restaurants from Ridgefield to Litchfield, to name just a few!

The evening is hosted in support of RVNAhealth’s home health and hospice care, and the agency’s mission-driven public health services and wellness programs. This year’s impact speaker will be Jeanette Rizzo, who will share a personal story about how RVNAhealth was “without a doubt, the best decision” she made when choosing health and home care for her mother. Her story includes the very special bond that was created between her family and the RVNAhealth caregiver who was honored to attend Jeanette’s daughter’s wedding even though her mother passed prior to the event. This relationship reflects the experience RVNAhealth strives to create for every patient and family member in their care.

We would like to provide a tremendous thank you our sponsors, including:

  • Presenting Sponsor: Bill Lichtenberger
  • Diamond Sponsors: The Bossidy Foundation, Fairfield County Bank, Joseph and Shelley O’Connor, Eileen and Jay Walker
  • Platinum Sponsors: Chipman Mazzucco Emerson LLC, Robert H. Martinsen, Mutual of America
  • Gold Sponsors: BMW of Ridgefield, Cramer & Anderson, LLP, The Donnelly Family, Liz and Steven Goldstone, Starr and Harvey Herscovitch, Christopher and Mary Joyce, Meadow Ridge, Reynolds & Rowella, LLP, Savings Bank of Danbury, SimiTree Healthcare Consulting, Wilton Meadows and The Greens at Cannondale
  • Silver Sponsors: Adam Broderick Salon & Spa, John and Lori Berisford, Jill Bornstein/Upnext Leadership Coaching, Gaetano Castellano, Kevin and Elaine Cox, Anita and Nick Donofrio, Elizabeth Murray Ellis, Hamlet Hub, Adam and Glori Norwitt, Dan and Annette O’Brien, On the Mend Medical Supplies & Equipment, Donna and Joe Pastore/Pastore LLC, John and Joanne Patrick, Thomas and Michele Quindlen, Ridgebury Riders, Rodier Flowers, Union Savings Bank, Peter and Lisa Vanderminden, Barbara and William Wyman, Young’s of Ridgefield.

If you are interested in supporting the RVNAhealth Autumn Dinner, you may purchase sponsorships, program book advertising, or tickets at RVNAhealth.org.  If you would like more information, please contact Debbie Campbell at 203.438.5555, x1249 or dcampbell@rvnahealth.org.

You Are Invited to Help Make a Difference!

The RVNAhealth Board of Directors, Leadership Team, and the Autumn Dinner Committee invite you to join us at the annual RVNAhealth Autumn Dinner on September 30th. The event, filled with fun and celebration of the meaningful impact RVNAhealth has on the communities it serves, will be held at Silver Spring Country Club in Ridgefield, CT.

You can make a difference by sharing in this opportunity to raise critical funds to support our home health and hospice care and sustain the mission-driven public health services and wellness programs we provide across 35+ Connecticut communities.

The evening will include cocktails on the patio with live music by Nick DePuy, bourbon tasting sponsored by Ancona’s Wines & Liquors, an impact speaker, gourmet dinner, our back-by-popular-demand “Date Night for a Year” raffle, fabulous live auction items, and more. Please see our 2022 Autumn Dinner recap and photo gallery here for a taste of the great evening that awaits you!

Tickets, Sponsorships, and Ads are available.  Click here to learn more about the many ways you can have an impact in supporting our mission and your community.

To discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jennifer Christensen, Donor Engagement Officer, at 203.438.5555 x1052 or via email at jchristensen@RVNAhealth.org.

We look forward to seeing you on September 30!

Nutrition For All Seasons

Feeling late to the start of your nutrition goals this year? 

Experiencing new or existing GI issues such bloating, nausea, or constipation?

Received a new diagnosis such as high cholesterol or diabetes?

Or maybe you have a new food allergy, or you have a picky eater at home for whom you worry about nutritional intake?  

Whatever your nutritional concerns, RVNAhealth’s Dietitian and nutrition expert, Monica Marcello, is here when you need her.

Monica Marcello, RVNAhealth Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Educator
Monica Marcello, RVNAhealth Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Educator

“Its never too late to start learning about and working on optimal nutrition to benefit your specific situation. Nutrition and pathways to better health are a progression – both in learning and in practice. It’s okay to start off small and work your way up. The important part starts with education and then learning what practices and techniques best fit your lifestyle to encourage long term success,” says Marcello.

If you have a new health concern, problems getting started or breaking through to a next level of nutritional wellness, or maintaining your nutritional success, RVNAhealth offers a variety of services that can help. For any questions or information on the below services, please visit our website or contact Monica Marcello.

RVNAhealth Nutrition Services

  • Individuals Nutrition Counseling: One-on-one comprehensive nutrition and wellness sessions tailored to your medical history, nutrient needs, and goals. Individualized counseling is perfect for someone who feels ready for, or in need of, a lifestyle change, usually involving one or more visits with our dietitian. Services include meal plans, recipes, education, motivational interviewing, nutrition prescription plan, and exercise prescription plan. First time 15-minute phone consultations are available free of charge. The price for formal service is $125 for an initial 1-hour visit; $85 for 45-minute follow-up visits. We do offer senior (65+) discounts on pricing. And RVNAhealth accepts Medicare B reimbursement for the following conditions: diabetes, renal disease, and kidney transplants.
  • NEW (for Existing or Past Clients) – Nutrition Maintenance Program: RVNAhealth is pleased to introduce a new Nutrition Maintenance program for only $19 per month. What’s included? One personalized nutrition prescription per month; One nutrient analysis report and emailed big-picture recommendations; Full access to EatLove nutrition software (meal planning, grocery list, recipe development, tracking, etc.). Email Monica for more information.
  • Interactive Cooking Classes: Learn practical ways to apply the knowledge we share during our visits, making it easier than ever to create delicious meals in your kitchen. Classes include demonstration on how to cook meals and the ability to prep/cook meals yourself, one meal to eat in the class or to take home (we usually have leftovers), 8-12 recipes, practical tool-kit of each topic discussed, and time with Monica to answer your individualized questions. Classes are typically on Friday’s 4:30-5:45 pm (see RVNAhealth nutrition webpage and calendar for the latest dates and topics). Price is $65 for each class, $8 off if you invite a friend (for you and them).
  • Free Nutrition Counseling for Ridgefield Kids 18 & Under: Thanks to the generous grant support of the Ridgefield Fresh Air Fund and the Barker Welfare Foundation, RVNAhealth is now able to offer free nutrition counseling for Ridgefield kids and teens. If your child or someone you know may benefit from working with a dietitian, call or email me and we can get them an appointment…for FREE! Three free nutrition appointments (or more depending on need). Any nutritional issues qualify (healthy eating, GI issues, picky eating, you name it). Sign your child up by clicking here! 

New Dementia Caregiver Support Group in Ridgefield

Alzheimer's and Dementia Support

RVNAhealth, in coordination with the Alzheimer’s Association, is pleased to now offer a monthly Dementia Caregiver Support Group at its Ridgefield offices. Held on the fourth Monday of every month from 11:00am-12:00pm, the caregiver support group aims to create a safe, confidential, supportive environment and a chance for participants to develop informal mutual support and social relationships. They also educate and inform participants about dementia and help participants develop methods and skills to solve problems.

Melissa Wutke, CDP, RVNAhealth Home Health Aide Supervisor

RVNAhealth’s own Melissa Wutke, CDP, will co-facilitate the monthly Alzheimer’s Association sessions.  Melissa is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, and currently works at RVNAhealth as a Home Health Aide Supervisor. Before joining RVNAhealth, she acquired extensive experience working with individuals affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementias in private homes, assisted living, and memory care facilities. She previously facilitated the Newtown Alzheimer’s Support Group and has received numerous certifications through the Alzheimer’s Association.

Melissa’s experience and passion was instrumental in helping to establish this new Alzheimer’s Association Dementia Support Group at RVNAhealth in Ridgefield. She is passionate about promoting and participating in Alzheimer’s Association resources and is excited to help support the local community. “Caregiver support groups play a vital role in providing assistance and resources for individuals caring for loved ones with dementia. Many caregivers will experience feelings of isolation. This support group offering will provide connection, information, and practical advice for taking care of your oved one and – just as important — yourself.”

For More Information or to Attend a Support Group

To view all upcoming Dementia Support Groups at RVNAhealth in Ridgefield, click here. Melissa will also co-facilitate Alzheimer’s Association monthly Dementia Support Groups in Bethel. Check out RVNAhealth’s calendar of support group events for more information, or check out the Alzheimer’s Association support group webpage to search for support groups near you or learn about virtual community groups.

About RVNAhealth

RVNAhealth offers a wide range of services to assist individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s or other Dementias. From nutrition services and personal medical alert devices, to rehabilitation, skilled nursing, private caregiver services and more, RVNAhealth offers a broad continuum of care designed to meet a patient and family’s evolving needs. Call us at 203.438.5555 or visit us at rvnahealth.org to learn more.

Charity Mphela

non-medical caregiver

Charity

Hometown: Waterbury, CT

“Charity has truly become a beloved member of our family. Her warmth, energy, and genuine love and caring for my parents is coupled with immense competence, professionalism, and insight about what is important. By any measure, she is a jewel with a sparkling personality and an infectious smile.” – Andy G., Danbury

 

 

 

 

Nikki Inneh

non-medical caregiver

Nikki

Hometown: Franklinville, NJ

“Nikki has been a wonderful support for her client. He has improved so much, physically and mentally, due to her exceptional care and positive spirit.” – Jessica, RVNAhealth Supervisor

 

 

 

 

Lena Boakye

Lena

Hometown: Ridgefield, CT

“The past few months have necessitated a lot of doctors appointments for my mom. Not only has Lena been completely on top of all the practical stuff – managing a rapidly changing calendar, getting Mom to and from appointments, conveying necessary info to me when I’ve been unable to make an appointment in person or by phone – but she’s also been mom‘s greatest advocate. She makes sure mom understands what’s being said in appointments and doesn’t feel that the doctors are talking over her head. Lena is always respectful and gracious throughout, but she is sure to center mom in all of these health care discussions and situations where others often “talk past” mom. She ensures my mom has a sense of control and maintains her sense of dignity, always. And this is priceless to my family.” – Vivienne L., Ridgefield

 

 

 

 

Hilary Stubbs

Hilary

Hometown: Ridgefield, CT

“Hilary has been the best thing that has happened since we received [my husband’s] diagnosis. She has been amazing, and helps [him] participate in numerous activities throughout the day so that I can go out without worry.” – Spouse, Ridgefield

 

 

 

 

Jan Brown vs. Parkinson’s … Score: 1-0

Nothing seems to stop 74 year old Newtown resident, Jan Brown – not even a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis! With a determined spirit and help from her doctors and the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center, Jan is now back to playing national level softball and more! And to celebrate Jan’s completion of RVNAhealth’s LSVT Parkinson’s program, the team decided what better way to celebrate than a surprise game of softball after her final session with RVNAhealth therapists and staff (see photo gallery below). Before the game, we had a chance to catch up with Jan and Parkinson’s Center staff to learn a little more about Jan and her journey.

About Jan & Her Diagnosis

After searching for a reason for progressing physical symptoms, Jan’s neurologist finally ordered a DaTscan. When her Parkinson’s diagnosis was revealed Jan was prescribed a common Parkinson’s disease medication which made significant improvements to her tremors and function. Her medical team also quickly mentioned, “You should check out the new Parkinson’s Center happening at RVNAhealth.”

Kate Campbell DPT, LSVT BIG, RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center Program Manager, recalled meeting Jan and evaluating her symptoms and goals. “At the point of diagnosis, the symptoms of her disease had progressed to the point of making simple daily tasks such as getting dressed, washing hair, and putting in contacts difficult,” said Campbell. This sports enthusiast and winner of several National Senior Games in softball and basketball, believed it was time to turn in her sports equipment. But thankfully the active spark in Jan had not fully extinguished and she signed on to participate in RVNAhealth’s LSVT program.

What is LSVT?

LSVT stands for Lee Silverman Voice Treatment. It is a globally recognized therapy program developed in the late 1980s and designed to help individuals with Parkinson’s disease improve their vocal and physical movement abilities. While the acronym LSVT refers to treatment for the effects of diminished or difficult voice/speaking skills, it also refers to an exercise protocol dedicated to improving a person’s physical movements commonly becoming smaller and more tentative as disease progresses. The LSVT programs aim to retrain a patient’s brain so their perception of their speech and movement is BIGGER and more accurate and they become able to speak and move with more amplitude.

RVNAhealth offers LSVT therapy at its Parkinson’s Center in Ridgefield and also in the home. The program is an intensive commitment – 4 weeks, 4 days a week for 1 hour appointments with an LSVT certified therapist – but when done, the results are usually life changing. Graduates of the program will have new habits and exercises to incorporate and continue in their ongoing daily routines. If someone needs a little more ongoing encouragement or prefers a group exercise setting, RVNAhealth also offers ongoing LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD weekly drop in exercise classes at its Ridgefield office for graduates. “Our goal is to help you live your best life with Parkinson’s. And our new Parkinson’s Center aims to be a lifelong resource for those who need it,” says Campbell.

Jan’s Experience at the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center

“I was determined to do what I needed to do to get back to my life. It was a commitment – 4 weeks, 4 days a week, 1 hour each day, plus homework – but with this program, I achieved my goals. I am so grateful!” says Jan. “And I am blown away by how much the RVNAhealth therapists know and have to know about Parkinson’s disease to help me and help other people. Megan [my RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center physical therapist assistant] listens to all of my questions and she is able to give me the correct answers. Everyone was just great.”

With Jan’s dedication to the LSVT program, its homework, and incorporating new skills and tools into her life to control symptoms, Jan is back to living her life to the fullest – including looking forward to the next softball National Senior Games in Arizona. And we didn’t mention her love of pickleball…or that she’s an instructor…or that she can beat her own grandchildren at the game!

What else can Jan Brown do with Parkinson’s disease? We’re betting on A LOT more! Way to go Jan – we are so proud of you!

For more information about the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center, visit our website or call 203.438.5555 ext 1082 or email PCInfo@rvnahealth.org.

See Jan throw!

See Jan jump!

See Jan swing! Go Jan go!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Megan Laber, Jan Brown, Kate Campbell

RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center staff with Jan Brown for celebration softball game