Our Volunteers are Heroes Without Capes

Giving Tuesday is based on the premise, “together, we create the future we want to see.”

At RVNAhealth, we know the difference YOU can make by supporting us on Giving Tuesday and bettering the lives of those in your community.

The RVNAhealth Volunteer Program is often where the magic happens. Our volunteers are truly heroes without capes, and your gift will sustain their compassionate work and the companionship they provide to our patients. This Giving Tuesday, we are asking for your support of RVNAhealth’s Volunteer Program. Stephanie Peppe, RVNAhealth Manager of Volunteer Services, warmly notes that “our volunteers come to us generously with selfless intent, yet they make a profound difference in the lives of those they touch.”

Our volunteers contribute to everything from supporting the daily operations of the organization to changing the lives of our hospice patients and their families. In the words of Paulina, a 4-year RVNAhealth volunteer who visits with our hospice patients weekly, “you are not just building a relationship with your patients, but also building relationships with their families. I love that I get to provide so much relief for the families because a lot of them are 24-7 caretakers for their loved ones, and it’s just amazing how profound of an impact you can have during this tough time.”

Kristy, Reiki Master and RVNAhealth volunteer who also works with our hospice patients shares, “I love hearing the wisdom and stories the patients share. If I can make a connection with somebody, letting them be seen, heard, & valued, it fills my bucket, just by seeing a patient, putting a smile on their face, or helping them relax. It has given me a new perspective and sense of compassion for the aging, and I hope someday, somebody comes to visit me and make my last days better, too.”

RVNAhealth patient (and carpenter) works on a birdhouse kit provided by the Wishes program

The RVNAhealth Volunteer Program needs your support in many ways, including technology in the form of laptops and volunteer management software, background checks and fitness testing to safeguard the communities we serve, and support of our Wishes Program*, to name just a few. The Wishes Program works to grant hospice patients and their families special wishes, both large and small. These “wishes” are carried out in large part by the efforts of our dedicated volunteers with funding from donor gifts. Granting these “wishes” is especially impactful when the cost may be prohibitive for the family or the timing difficult, if not impossible, for friends and family to navigate.

Wishes may be as simple as a meal requested for a bedbound patient from their favorite restaurant, a flower arrangement, books & games to pass the time …  or more complex like planting a tomato garden for a patient to continue his treasured tradition of doing so, building birdhouses with a carpenter struggling with dementia, purchasing an air conditioner for a patient to remain safe and comfortable during extreme summer heat, or needing ambulette transport to a special family gathering or a grandchild’s school concert.

In this season of gratitude and giving, please consider making a contribution to RVNAhealth in honor of Giving Tuesday, and give the precious gift of health, comfort and peace to the patients and families we serve. You may click here to donate: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/rvnahealthgivingtuesday2024

* In addition to the generous support of our donors, the RVNAhealth Wishes Program is partially funded by a grant from the Ridgefield Thrift Shop.

Beyond Comfort: The Unique Benefits of Hospice Care

Each November, the healthcare industry pauses to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of hospice care, the benefits it offers, and the dedicated professionals who deliver compassionate support. For those unfamiliar with hospice, it is often perceived merely as medical assistance during an individual’s final days; however, its scope extends far beyond that. “We have a saying around here: ‘Hospice is for living,’” states Katie Quine, RVNAhealth Director of Hospice. “This reflects our daily mission to support both patients and families by providing comfort and facilitating meaningful moments.”

RVNAhealth provides a comprehensive range of hospice services, highlighting some lesser-known benefits that go beyond traditional notions of comfort.

Care in a Comfortable Setting

RVNAhealth accommodates patients in their homes as well as in facility-based care, allowing for personalized options. When patients choose to receive care at home, RVNAhealth ensures that medical supplies, medications, and professional staff are readily available there, often enhancing the overall comfort of the experience.

Respite Care and Companionship for Patients and Families

Recognizing that family caregivers often feel overwhelmed, hospice care includes respite services to provide them with essential breaks. This arrangement allows caregivers to recharge while ensuring that their loved ones receive quality care. Additionally, RVNAhealth’s team of hospice volunteers enriches the experience by offering companionship and joy—engaging in activities such as playing board games, documenting memories, shopping for meaningful gifts, or sharing in the enjoyment of reading together. This team-based approach fosters an environment that cultivates beauty and joy for the entire family.

Emotional and Spiritual Support
Pet and music therapy during hospice care
Music therapy and pet (Sophia) therapy during a hospice visit.

Hospice care encompasses holistic support, addressing emotional and spiritual needs for both patients and their families. RVNAhealth’s licensed clinical social workers and spiritual coordinators collaborate to guide families through grief, anxiety, and the search for peace during challenging times. Furthermore, RVNAhealth offers music and pet therapy options for those seeking additional comfort during hospice visits.

Bereavement Support

One often-overlooked aspect of hospice care is the ongoing support provided to families after the loss of a loved one. RVNAhealth’s hospice team offers grief counseling and support groups to assist family members in navigating their loss for up to 13 months following a patient’s passing. This includes an annual hospice memorial event and monthly bereavement support groups held in Ridgefield and New Milford.

In summary, hospice care is centered around comfort, compassion, and comprehensive support, aiding families as they navigate some of life’s most challenging moments with greater ease and peace. If you believe that hospice care could benefit your family, please contact RVNAhealth at 203.438.5555 or visit our hospice website for more information.

Many components of our hospice care, such as bereavement support, our annual hospice memorial event, and music and pet therapies, are only possible with financial support from our donors. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.

 

About RVNAhealth

RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.

Medicare Enrollment: Understanding Your 2025 Options

Understanding your Medicare options

REMINDER!  Medicare enrollment for the 2025 calendar year runs from October 15th to December 7th of 2024. If you are still finalizing your decisions or just want to be better educated, please feel free to view our <presentation materials from our October 22nd presentation “Medicare Explained: Understanding Your Options.”> Michael Bush, a specialist in Medicare education provided attendees with an overview of enrollment facts and considerations.

Understanding your Medicare enrollment options is crucial for several reasons, as it directly impacts your access to healthcare coverage and the cost of that coverage. Here are some key reasons why it’s important to understand your Medicare enrollment options:

  • Access to Healthcare Services: Proper enrollment ensures that you have access to the healthcare services you need. Medicare coverage includes hospital stays, outpatient care, preventive services, and prescription drugs. Understanding your options helps you select the plan that best meets your health needs.
  • Avoiding Penalties: Enrolling in Medicare on time helps you avoid late enrollment penalties. For example, if you don’t enroll in Medicare Part B when you’re first eligible and you don’t have other creditable health coverage, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty, resulting in higher premiums.
  • Cost Management: Different parts of Medicare come with different costs, such as premiums, deductibles, and co-payments. Understanding your options allows you to choose a plan that aligns with your budget and healthcare needs. This can help you manage your healthcare expenses more effectively.
  • Coverage Gaps: Medicare alone may not cover all your healthcare needs. There are coverage gaps, and you may need additional insurance, such as a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan or a Medicare Advantage plan, to fill those gaps. Knowing your options helps you choose the coverage that addresses your specific requirements.
  • Changing Healthcare Needs: Your healthcare needs may change over time, and so should your coverage. Understanding your enrollment options allows you to make changes during specific enrollment periods, ensuring that your coverage continues to meet your evolving health requirements.
  • Prescription Drug Coverage: Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage. It’s essential to choose a plan that covers the medications you need at a cost you can afford. Failing to enroll in Part D when you’re eligible may result in a late enrollment penalty if you don’t have other creditable prescription drug coverage.
  • Timely Enrollment: Enrolling in Medicare on time ensures that you have coverage when you need it. Delaying enrollment could lead to gaps in coverage, leaving you responsible for paying for healthcare services out of pocket.
  • Preventive Services: Medicare offers a range of preventive services, often at no cost to you. Understanding your enrollment options allows you to take advantage of these services, promoting early detection and prevention of health issues.

Understanding your Medicare enrollment options empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your health and financial goals.

Grief, Healing and the Holidays

Grief, healing and the holidays. Presentation at RVNAhealth

This holiday season might mark the initial one following the loss of a loved one. 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.

“Instead of the usual holiday traditions evoking feelings of ‘comfort and joy’ in us, they tend to resurface memories and emotions that can also bring forth feelings of sorrow and heartache,” says Garrett Walkup, RVNAhealth Manager of Bereavement, Social Work, and Pastoral Care Services.

Special Presentation: Grief, Healing and the Holidays

To provide additional support during this time of year, RVNAhealth will host two presentations on “Grief, Healing and the Holidays.” These lectures will include “how to cope with the emotions and feelings of the season, how to handle holiday traditions, and what to do differently – and the same,” says Walkup. Walkup will cover several 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.

These programs are open to all members of the community and are intended to offer support through the holiday season for those who have experienced a loss.  You may contact Garrett Walkup, at 475-529-6118, or gwalkup@rvnahealth.org if you have any questions.

Ongoing Monthly Grief/Bereavement Support Groups Available

RVNAhealth also offers monthly support groups at both its Ridgefield and New Milford offices. These are open to anyone needing a space for comfort and guidance on grief and healing. Please see current dates available below. Check out the RVNAhealth calendar / support groups tab for the latest information and offerings.

 

About RVNAhealth

RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.

Dementia Caregiver Support Group in Ridgefield

Alzheimer's and Dementia Support

RVNAhealth is pleased to 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.

RVNAhealth licensed clinical social workers and certified dementia practitioners will facilitate the monthly sessions.  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 loved 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. 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.

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.

View our gallery of photos from the 2024 Autumn Dinner.

 

Flu Season Prep: Importance of Vaccines for Seniors

Fight the flu with vaccination

As flu season nears, protecting seniors is essential, as they are more vulnerable to complications. A key step is getting the annual flu vaccine, which can significantly reduce risks.

Why Seniors Are at Higher Risk

Seniors, especially those over 65, have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to serious flu-related complications like pneumonia or worsening chronic conditions. Most flu-related hospitalizations and deaths occur in this age group.

The Flu Vaccine’s Benefits for Seniors

While not a guarantee against infection, the flu vaccine lowers the chance of getting the virus and reduces symptom severity. High-dose and adjuvanted flu vaccines are available for older adults, offering stronger protection.

When and Where to Get Vaccinated

Seniors should get vaccinated by late October to be protected as flu season begins. RVNAhealth is happy to provide several opportunities to check this task off your list!

  • Saturday, October 5th from 9am-12pm – RVNAhealth 49th Annual Wellness Fair – Yanity Gym, 60 Prospect Street, Ridgefield. Walk-in flu vaccines (high-dose and regular) are offered to all individuals 6 months and older. Vaccines are free for children through the age of 18. For adults, we accept the following insurance plans for flu vaccines: Medicare Part B, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
  • Saturday, October 19th from 9am- 11am – RVNAhealth Drive-Thru Clinic, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield. As another convenient option, we offer our drive-thru clinic in the parking lot of RVNAhealth in Ridgefield. To expedite your process, please book a time slot HERE (1 slot per family/car) AND complete a consent form for EACH person to be vaccinated before you arrive. Vaccines are free for children 18 years and younger. For adults, we accept the following insurance plans for flu vaccines: Medicare Part B, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
  • At RVNAhealth By Appointment, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield – A limited number of appointments at our Ridgefield office will be available on Wednesdays and Fridays. Evening hours until 6pm will be available on Wednesdays. Available appointments may be booked HERE (1 slot per family). Please also complete a consent form for EACH person to be vaccinated before you arrive. Vaccines are free for children 18 years and younger. For adults, we accept the following insurance plans for flu vaccines: Medicare Part B, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Other Flu Prevention Tips

  • Practice hygiene: Wash hands frequently and use sanitizer.
  • Avoid sick people: Limit exposure to those who are ill.
  • Boost immunity: Eat healthily, stay hydrated, and rest.
  • Clean surfaces: Disinfect high-touch areas regularly.
  • Caregiver Vaccination: Caregivers should also get vaccinated to help shield seniors from the flu.

For More Information

Flu vaccines, paired with preventive measures, are crucial for protecting seniors during flu season. Contact RVNAhealth at 203.438.5555, or fill out our contact form with any questions. You can also visit our flu vaccine page for more information.

Happy 25th Anniversary, Theresa!

Celebrating the visionary leadership of Theresa Santoro at RVNAhealth's Autumn Dinner 2024

We are excited to celebrate Theresa Santoro’s 25th anniversary with RVNAhealth, and we invite you to join us on Thursday, September 26th, at Le Chateau in South Salem, NY.

Joining the agency as a visiting nurse 25 years ago, Theresa Santoro was appointed President & CEO in July 2007. Since then, she has led RVNAhealth through tremendous growth, including the addition of hospice and nonmedical caregiving services; community clinics and wellness programs; the construction of the 23,000 square foot RVNAhealth headquarters which houses offices, treatment rooms, a clinical training and resource center, and an outpatient therapy center; as well as a merger with the Bethel VNA and New Milford Visiting Nurse & Hospice. She also guided the agency as it navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, with nursing and hospice care in private homes and skilled nursing facilities, and public health vaccine administration. Called “the heart of communities throughout Connecticut” by the local press, Santoro’s tutelage has positioned the nonprofit as the premier healthcare resource for home and community-based care.

Theresa has received numerous awards that reflect the value of her trailblazing leadership and the respect she has earned from colleagues and highly regarded institutions alike. These include the Visiting Nurse Association of New England (VNANE) Innovator’s Award, which honors agencies that develop and implement innovations that improve cost, quality of care, and access, and the Connecticut Association for Healthcare at Home (CAHCH) Judith Hriceniak Award for Excellence in Nursing Leadership. RVNAhealth has also been recognized with the Top Workplace Award from Hearst Connecticut Media eleven times since 2011.

More recently, RVNAhealth has designed and launched its unique and highly acclaimed Parkinson’s Center and expanded its Dementia Resources Program, not only to help those living with Parkinson’s Disease or Dementia, but to support caregivers along their journey, as well.

Now, with 500 employees serving more than 5,000 patients annually in their homes, across 35 CT towns, RVNAhealth is proud to have remained true and dedicated to its mission to provide unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed.

So please join us as we celebrate RVNAhealth and Theresa’s past, present, and future success, driven by her 25 years of visionary leadership. TOGETHER, we can build stronger and healthier communities for all!

Click here for Ticket and Sponsorship Opportunities. Reach out to Debbie Campbell, dcampbell@rvnahealth.org / 203-438-5555 x1249 for more information.

We Make (Therapy) House Calls!

Medicare Part B in-home physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech rehabilitation therapy

October is National Physical Therapy Month, highlighting the vital role physical therapy (PT) plays in improving lives. Physical therapy aids recovery after surgery or injury, improves mobility and independence, helps manage chronic pain, and supports overall health.

RVNAhealth offers physical therapy, as well as occupational and speech therapies, in the home and at our RVNAhealth Therapy Center. While many understand the difference between in-home and outpatient therapy, here we highlight a unique in-home option that many are unaware of—Medicare Part B In-Home Therapy (sometimes referred to as “in-home-outpatient” therapy).

What is Medicare Part B In-Home Therapy?

Medicare Part B covers outpatient rehabilitative therapy services when they are medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor or qualified healthcare provider. However, these benefits extend beyond outpatient clinics, like our RVNAhealth Therapy Clinic—Part B can also cover therapy in the home.

Therapy at home (including physical, occupational, and speech therapies) may be provided for conditions such as post-surgery recovery, managing chronic conditions (e.g., arthritis, Parkinson’s), or improving mobility. The therapy must be medically necessary, meaning it is needed to diagnose or treat a condition, illness, or injury. Basic requirements for Medicare Part B In-Home Therapy include:

  • You have Medicare Part B coverage, and
  • Your doctor has certified the medical necessity of physical, occupational, or speech therapy, and
  • You are not eligible for Medicare Part A home health benefits

Situations where Part B In-Home Therapy Services may help:

  • Transitioning from Home Health to outpatient therapy care
  • Chronic conditions or continuation of care not covered by Medicare Part A
  • Transportation challenges or concerns about leaving home for appointments
  • Strength and conditioning support
  • Recovery from orthopedic injuries or surgeries
  • Neurological conditions

For More Information or to Inquire About Medicare Part B In-Home Therapy Services

Call RVNAhealth at 203.438.5555 and ask to speak with someone about Medicare Part B therapy or fill out our contact form here.

 

About RVNAhealth

RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.