As the Director of Philanthropy at RVNAhealth, it is both a privilege and a responsibility to lead a team in raising funds and awareness for an organization that provides essential healthcare when and where it is needed throughout 35+ western Connecticut communities. Every step we take toward fulfilling our mission is powered by a simple, undeniable truth: none of this would be possible without you – our generous donors, sponsors, and volunteers.
You are the heart and soul of RVNAhealth. Whether you’ve donated your time, your expertise, your financial gifts, or helped spread the word about our work, your support is what makes our impact possible. It is because of you that we can continue to offer top-notch and innovative healthcare to those who might otherwise not have access to it.
Reflecting on this past year, I am in awe of what we have achieved together. Thanks to you, we have been able to make a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals. Here are just a few of the accomplishments made possible by your generosity:
62,461 healthcare visits made to patients in their homes, ensuring care reaches those who need it most.
488 hospice patients received compassionate, end-of-life care, including 1,975 volunteer hours dedicated to supporting their families.
203 children with limited access to preventive healthcare received school-required physicals and immunizations, at no cost to their families.
7,328 visits to our outpatient Rehabilitation & Wellness Center helped patients recover strength, mobility, and independence.
84 new moms and 69 babies received vital support through our Nurse-Family Partnership program.
421,180 hours of non-medical assistance helped individuals remain safe and independent at home, enhancing their quality of life.
Your support has touched lives in ways that words cannot fully capture, and we are so fortunate to have you by our side. Thank you for your belief in our mission. Thank you for your dedication. Thank you for helping us build stronger, healthier communities.
As we enter a new year, RVNAhealth wishes you and your loved ones good health, happiness, and joy. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and for helping us continue to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed most.
As the weather cools, staying active indoors becomes more important to maintain strength, mobility, and overall well-being. Here are some effective and enjoyable exercise ideas for seniors to stay active during winter—right from the comfort of home!
Chair Exercises
Chair exercises are fantastic for maintaining mobility and flexibility. Try seated leg lifts, arm raises, and ankle rotations to improve circulation. For an added challenge, use resistance bands.
Looking for a guided option? Join RVNAhealth’s Chair Fit class, offered every Tuesday from 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM. This engaging program is perfect for improving strength and flexibility in a safe, supportive environment. Learn more and sign up here.
Indoor Walking
Walking indoors is an excellent low-impact exercise. Use YouTube walking videos to add variety or simply pace around the house. This keeps the body moving and the heart pumping, even on the coldest days.
Stretching and Flexibility
Stretching keeps muscles flexible and helps prevent stiffness. Gentle yoga or tai chi can also improve balance and reduce stress. Not sure where to start? Join one of RVNAhealth’s programs or reach out to our Therapy Center for a custom exercise plan.
Sit-to-Stands: A Simple Yet Powerful Exercise
Kate Campbell, DPT, at RVNAhealth, highlights sit-to-stands as one of the most functional and effective exercises seniors can do daily. This move mirrors the action of standing up from a chair, making it highly practical:
Stand up from a chair, sit back down, and repeat.
The lower the chair, the harder the challenge!
Aim for 10, 20, or even 30 repetitions—go until you’re tired.
If 30 feels easy, hug a heavy object or present for added resistance.
Want to challenge your balance? Try it with your eyes closed.
Kate Campbell, DPT, is a highly experienced physical therapist at RVNAhealth who specializes in helping individuals of all ages maintain and improve their mobility, strength, and overall wellness. Her practical and effective exercise recommendations are tailored to meet the unique needs of seniors.
Step-Ups: Build Strength and Cardio
For a simple exercise that strengthens the legs, improves balance, and gets the heart rate up, Kate Campbell recommends step-ups:
Use stairs or a step stool, stepping up and balancing at the top before stepping down.
This combines strength, balance, and light cardio in one effective move.
Push-Ups: Strength at Any Level
Push-ups are a versatile exercise that can be adjusted for any ability level:
Try them on the floor, on your knees, or with your hands elevated on a counter, bed, or armrest.
Focus on going deep and moving slowly for the best results.
The Key to Progress: Make It Harder as You Go
According to Kate Campbell, the key to building strength and burning calories is increasing the challenge over time. While more repetitions help build endurance, if you can easily complete 20 reps, it’s time to add resistance, increase the depth, or try balance challenges.
RVNAhealth: Here to Help
Staying active indoors helps seniors maintain independence and enjoy better health year-round. For personalized guidance or tailored exercise plans, contact RVNAhealth’s Therapy Center at 203.438.7862. And if you’re ready to get out and move, join one of our exercise programs!
Pickleball, a sport blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has become a nationwide sensation. Its accessibility and social nature have made it a favorite pastime for players of all ages. But as participation grows, so does the need to understand its benefits, common injuries, and the essential role physical therapy plays in maintaining optimal performance and preventing setbacks.
The Benefits of Pickleball
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or picking up a paddle for the first time, pickleball offers a wide range of health advantages, including:
Cardiovascular Fitness: Engage your heart and improve endurance with the sport’s quick-paced movements.
Enhanced Balance and Coordination: The agility required strengthens reflexes and stability.
Mental Wellness: Enjoy a boost in mood and cognitive function while connecting with friends and fellow players.
Muscle Strength and Flexibility: With regular play, you’ll notice improved strength in your legs, arms, and core.
Common Pickleball Injuries
As with any sport, pickleball carries its share of injury risks, particularly if players don’t prepare properly. Frequent injuries include:
Tennis Elbow: Repeated swinging can strain the elbow tendons.
Shoulder Strains: Overhead serves and smashes can lead to rotator cuff issues.
Ankle Sprains: Rapid side-to-side movement can result in rolled ankles.
Plantar Fasciitis: Stress on the feet from improper footwear or prolonged play.
The Role of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be a game-changer for pickleball enthusiasts, offering:
Injury Prevention Programs: Targeted strength and flexibility exercises to minimize risks.
Rehabilitation Plans: Speedy and safe recovery for players sidelined by injury.
Performance Optimization: Improve form, endurance, and agility to elevate your game.
Upcoming Event: Step Up Your Pickleball Game
For those passionate about pickleball or curious to try it, RVNAhealth invites you to:
Step Up Your Pickleball Game: Injury Prevention & Performance Tips
Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Location: Mark Twain Library, 439 Redding Road, Redding
Join Sports Podiatrist Dr. Allan Rosenthal, affectionately called “Dr. Pickleball,” and RVNAhealth’s Senior Director of Community Rehabilitative Services, Gigi Weiss, MSPT, for an engaging and educational session. Topics include:
Preventing common injuries and selecting proper footwear.
Exercises to enhance strength and agility.
Tips for skill development and game improvement.
Dr. Rosenthal, a certified pickleball instructor and podiatric sports medicine expert, has extensive experience helping athletes optimize their performance while staying injury-free. Gigi Weiss brings decades of rehabilitative expertise, ensuring participants walk away with actionable tips to stay at the top of their game.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experts and connect with other pickleball enthusiasts. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this event will provide invaluable insights to keep you healthy and thriving on the court.
RVNAhealth is proud to continue its commitment to supporting individuals diagnosed with dementia, their families, and caregivers through our Dementia Education & Resources Program. This program offers a wealth of knowledge, tools, and strategies, delivered by experts, to help navigate the challenges associated with dementia.
“Newly diagnosed dementia patients and their families often face scattered resources, leaving them feeling isolated and overwhelmed. This program is designed to fill that gap by providing consistent education, therapeutic programs, and support for caregivers and individuals at every stage of the journey.”
Adding to this mission is Danielle Taibi, OTR/L, CDP, and Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer. Danielle, an Occupational Therapist and Dementia Specialist, has played an integral role in developing and rolling out RVNAhealth’s Dementia Education and Resources Program. With eight years at RVNAhealth in roles spanning occupational therapy to home health supervision, Danielle’s passion for dementia care is evident in her words:
“I am someone who wants to delve into what intervention strategies and training will be the most helpful for people in the community and for RVNAhealth staff, who are increasingly treating patients with dementia. My goal is to provide accessible resources and practical support that make a difference in quality of life.”
Upcoming Events
As part of its initiative, RVNAhealth is offering a 3-part educational series at the Ridgefield Library. These events are designed to equip attendees with critical knowledge and practical tools to better understand and manage dementia.
1. Cognitive Decline and Dementia: The Importance of Early Evaluation
Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Presenter: Dr. Alison McElhone, Geriatrician, Stamford Health
Dr. Alison McElhone is a leading geriatrician specializing in dementia and cognitive health at Stamford Health. She is renowned for her work in early dementia detection and patient-centered care. Attendees will gain insight into different types of dementia, early warning signs, and the critical importance of early evaluation to access resources and improve outcomes.
2. Navigating Communication Challenges in Dementia Care
Date: Thursday, March 6, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Presenters: Gigi Weiss, MSPT, CDP, and Danielle Taibi, OTR/L, CDP
Discover strategies for effective communication tailored to various stages of dementia and learn how to manage challenging behaviors with compassion and understanding. Gigi Weiss and Danielle Taibi will share their expertise to help caregivers and families foster meaningful connections.
3. Legal and Long-Term Financial Planning in Dementia Care
Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Presenters: Joshua Weinshank, Esq., and Amy Feder, LCSW
Joshua Weinshank, Esq., is an experienced estate planning attorney who helps families with a wide range of financial and legal planning needs. For this presentation, he’ll focus on navigating the complexities of dementia care, sharing strategies to create secure plans that ensure financial stability and preparedness. Amy Feder, LCSW, brings her expertise as a geriatric care manager and social worker, sharing real stories and practical advice. Together, they’ll provide guidance on essential legal documents and financial steps to help families navigate the challenges of dementia with confidence.
RVNAhealth’s Dementia Education & Resources Program offers vital guidance for individuals, families, and caregivers navigating the challenges of dementia. Through expert guidance, therapeutic tools, and community engagement, we provide practical support and education to help navigate this journey. To learn more about our program and upcoming events, please visit our website. Together, we can enhance understanding, build resilience, and create a supportive community for those affected by dementia.
The Dementia Education & Resources Program is made possible in large part by a grant from Union Savings Bank. 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 donors 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.
110 years ago, the seeds of RVNAhealth were planted with a single nurse providing home healthcare to one community. We have maintained our community-based focus as we evolved into a non-profit organization that provides care for people of all ages, from birth through end of life. Today, we serve more than 5,000 people annually across 35+ Connecticut towns, with home healthcare, rehabilitation therapies, palliative and hospice care. Our donor-funded community programs for Chronic Care patients, underinsured children, and first-time, low-income mothers serve those who might not have access to care without our support.
Please make a gift to RVNAhealth today and know that every gift – no matter the size – is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. YOU make more possible.
Learn more about our commitment to your community and how you can donate to support those who might not otherwise have access to care. We invite you to get to know us better through Barbara’s story, an RVNAhealth patient…
As we journey through life, the idea of planning for our senior years can feel like a distant concern—until it’s not. Preparing for the golden years is more than just saving money; it’s about creating a roadmap for a secure, meaningful, and well-supported life. However, certain aspects of senior planning are often underestimated, leaving individuals and families scrambling to address overlooked needs.
So, how do you start—or even reassess—your future planning? A great place to begin is with a Geriatric Care Manager (GCM). At RVNAhealth, Geriatric Care Management is available to anyone looking for guidance in planning for their own or a loved one’s future.
According to Amy Feder, LCSW, Certified Care Manager and one of RVNAhealth’s expert GCMs, even the most meticulous planners can overlook key details that significantly impact peace of mind and satisfaction with aging plans.
“By addressing the crucial yet underappreciated areas, you can give yourself—and your loved ones—the invaluable gift of a well-planned future.”
While Geriatric Care Management Services might not top your holiday wish list, consider some often-overlooked aspects of planning that could change your perspective.
Planning Today for a Better Tomorrow
1. Where Will You Spend Your Golden Years?
Many people aim to age in place, but few evaluate whether their homes can accommodate evolving needs. Features like single-level living, wider doorways, or grab bars might seem unnecessary now but can become essential later.
A proactive approach includes assessing your home for potential modifications and setting a budget for these updates. Even if staying at home is your preference, life’s unpredictability makes it wise to explore alternative housing options.
Geriatric Care Managers can guide you through every aspect of housing planning. From conducting home safety assessments and budgeting for modifications to exploring alternative living arrangements, they help ensure you’re prepared for any scenario.
2. Closing the Gaps in Your Planning
Even meticulous planners can overlook critical details. Perhaps you’ve drafted advanced directives, created an estate plan, or organized legacy documents. But have you communicated your wishes clearly to loved ones? Are you confident your chosen representatives understand—and are prepared to uphold—your preferences?
A Geriatric Care Manager can review and refine these plans to make them airtight. They can provide tools to navigate difficult conversations and even facilitate family meetings to ensure your intentions are clear.
3. Building Your Support Team
Many assume family will naturally step into caregiving or advocacy roles. However, factors like distance, time constraints, or the complexities of aging can make this assumption problematic.
In such cases, a Geriatric Care Manager can act as an independent advocate, complementing or even leading your support system. At RVNAhealth, our Geriatric Care Management services expand your team even further through access to a wide network of resources, including RVNAhealth’s visiting nurses, rehabilitation therapies, private caregivers, palliative care, hospice care, and more. As your needs change, solutions are just one phone call away!
The Legacy of Thoughtful Planning
Planning for the future isn’t just a gift to yourself; it’s a profound gift to your loved ones. By addressing often-overlooked areas, you offer them peace of mind, clarity, and a sense of security. A well-planned future goes beyond financial readiness—it creates a legacy of purpose, connection, and confidence.
Start planning your future today. Contact RVNAhealth at 203.438.5555 or fill out our contact form to learn how we can guide you toward a secure and meaningful future. It’s a gift you’ll always be grateful you gave.
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.
This is an oldie but goodie. While falling knows no season, winter’s approach is a great time to get refreshed on important facts and tips for fall prevention. In addition to RVNAhealth’s many resources, we have several fall prevention classes scheduled for the new year — check out our Wellness Academy calendar for a class near you!
How the Fear of Falling Hurts
As the golden years unfold, older adults often face a silent adversary that can significantly impact their well-being — the fear of falling. This apprehension, though understandable, can have profound consequences on their physical and mental health. Research studies suggest that over a third of older adults report a fear of falling. Within this demographic, an estimated 25% to 50% admit to limiting their activities as a direct response to this fear. Consequently, such restrictions can result in diminished social interaction and physical deconditioning.
The fear of falling is not an irrational concern but rather a natural response to the increased vulnerability that often accompanies aging. As bodies undergo changes in muscle mass, bone density, and sensory perception, the risk of falls naturally rises. In an attempt to avoid potential harm, older adults may limit their activities, leading to a sedentary lifestyle that, paradoxically, exacerbates the very issues they seek to avoid.
Take Control
Falling is not an inevitability. There are strategies and resources available to reduce risk and increase safety. The most important thing is to be fall-risk aware and use action instead of avoidance. The following are some of our top recommendations:
Stay up to date on your health and talk to your doctor about fall history and your risk factors. Be sure to review areas such as bone health, vision, foot health and proper shoe wear, any dizziness, and medications and potential side effects.
Adherence to an exercise routine is a cornerstone to fall prevention. Exercise not only decreases the incidence of falls but also acts as a deterrent against fall-related injuries. Seniors identified as being at risk of falling should engage in exercise routines meticulously crafted by a health professional (like RVNAhealth’s Rehabilitation team!) to enhance or sustain their balance, strength, and endurance.
Home safety is a priority. Home is where a large majority of falls can occur. Slippery bathroom surfaces, poorly lit rooms, clutter, loose rugs or wires on floors are some of the most common fall hazards. Modifications such as improving lighting, securing rugs, decluttering, installing bathroom grab bars, and placing frequently used items at easily reachable levels are all helpful strategies to reduce fall risk.
RVNAhealth Fall Prevention Resources
RVNAhealth offers a variety of expertise and services that can help address the fear of falling and give you the confidence to keep moving!
Rehabilitation Therapies. The Rehabilitation team offers evaluations and physical and vestibular therapy techniques focused on improving balance and strength. Our trained therapists can provide individualized exercise recommendations aimed at reducing the risk of falls, and can also assess the home for safety. Services can be provided in-home upon doctor recommendation or outpatient at our RVNAhealth Therapy Center in Ridgefield.
Exercise. The RVNAhealth Therapy Center also offers weekly drop-in classes such as Balance & Beyond, Strength & Beyond, and Chair Fit exercise classes aimed at improving strength and stability. In 2023 the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center was also introduced, providing expertise in exercise and fall prevention specific to Parkinson’s disease patients.
Personal Medical Alert equipment. RVNAhealth offers Lifeline Personal Medical Alert equipment and service subscriptions, including set up and maintenance, for in-home and/or on-the-go monitoring. Having this service can dramatically speed emergency support in the event of a fall.
Private Caregiving Services. Available short or long-term, our StayingWELL hourly and live-in personal caregivers provide non-medical and household assistance to loved ones that need help to remain safe, independent, and confident in their place of residence.
Education.RVNAhealth’s Wellness Academy is pleased to offer an ongoing calendar of educational events each month held at our offices or on the road throughout the many towns we serve. We regularly offer classes on fall prevention strategies, bone health, and nutrition education. We encourage you to check our calendar regularly for updated events!
For more information on any of the above resources, please contact us at 203.438.5555.
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.
Hospice care plays a crucial role in providing comfort and dignity for individuals facing life-limiting illnesses. Despite its importance, misconceptions often surround this specialized care, leading to confusion and hesitations. Below we address common questions about hospice care, clarifying its purpose, eligibility, and accessibility. Additionally, we also address persistent myths, shedding light on the comprehensive support hospice care offers to both patients and their families. By understanding the realities of hospice care, individuals can make informed decisions about their end-of-life care options and find peace in their journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hospice Care
Q: What is hospice care? A:Hospice care is a special type of care for those facing a life-limiting illness. Hospice care focuses on managing symptoms and pain and helping patients and their families to be as comfortable as possible – physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.
Q: Who is eligible for hospice care? A: Individuals diagnosed with a life-limiting condition with a prognosis of six months or less. One needn’t be homebound to receive hospice services.
Q: When is it time for hospice care? A: Hospice care is typically recommended when a physician is offering a life expectancy of six months or less, depending on the course of the disease. Patients and families benefit most when their symptoms are managed earlier during their disease process rather than later. Read more here.
Q: Who pays for hospice care? A: Most private insurance plans cover hospice care expenses related to the terminal diagnosis, as do Medicare and Medicaid.
Q. Where can I receive hospice care?
A. Wherever the patient resides, in the 35+ towns RVNAhealth serves.
Myths About Hospice Care
Hospice care is very beneficial to patients and their loved ones. But it is often misunderstood. Following are common myths about hospice care that are not true.
Myth: Hospice care quickens end of life. Fact: Hospice neither hastens nor slows the end of life. Hospice is a means of healing and providing relief so that patients may focus on quality of life.
Myth: Hospice is solely for cancer patients. Fact: The RVNAhealth hospice team cares for patients with cancer and many other chronic illnesses.
Myth: Hospice is only for patients nearing death. Fact: Patients with a prognosis of six months or less may be cared for through hospice services. Patients often ‘graduate’ from hospice care.
Myth: Hospice is far too expensive for a patient and their family. Fact: Hospice care is covered by most insurance companies and Medicare, Medicaid and other plans.
Myth: It is difficult for a patient to obtain hospice care. Fact: RVNAhealth will guide you through the steps toward hospice care. You and your family are provided with a medical support team and access to our family of health services: skilled nursing, physical therapists, and non-medical caregivers.
MYTH: Hospice care ends when the patient passes away. FACT: RVNAhealth offers bereavement support to family members up to 13 months after the passing of a loved one.
Understanding hospice care is essential for dispelling myths and recognizing the immense support it offers to patients and their loved ones. Far from being a last resort, hospice care focuses on enhancing the quality of life, alleviating pain, and providing holistic care tailored to individual needs. It is accessible, affordable, and available to patients with various conditions. By embracing the truth about hospice care, families can navigate this stage with compassion, dignity, and the assurance that they are not alone. For more information, contact RVNAhealth at 203.438.5555.
RVNAhealth began in 1914, when a group of civic-minded women met at the Main Street home of Mrs. Ebenezer Keeler and resolved to bring homecare nursing to Ridgefield. This was the start of the District Nursing Association. Following the precedent set by Florence Nightingale in England and the Henry Street Settlement on the lower east side of Manhattan, these women introduced public health nursing to Ridgefield.
The District Nursing Association (“DNA”) was established to assist the town health officer, visit the sick and needy, establish a school health program, and disseminate health information to the community. The DNA nurse attended to patients’ environment, nourishment, treatment, and medication. In addition to general care, the nurse often found it necessary to contribute clothes, food, equipment, and housekeeping services to people in need of relief. Irene Hoyt, one of the agency’s first nurses, became the symbol of the DNA, joining in 1927, and remaining on staff until 1972.
Introducing Round-the-Clock Service
Building on knowledge gained from experience and lessons learned from the growing public health movement, the DNA further advanced the concept of healing in the home and in the community. By 1977, the DNA was providing 24-hour service, seven days a week, with 38 full- and part-time professional staff.
During the 1980s we introduced many new services, including blood pressure clinics, a nursing registry, vision and hearing screenings, wellness seminars, and support groups. The staff then included physical and occupational therapists, a dietitian and a medical social worker. In 1983, the DNA Hospice program accepted its first patients as a member of Mid-Fairfield Hospice.
By 1993, the agency was accredited with commendation by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. In 2002, the DNA was accredited, again with commendation, by the Community Health Accreditation Program (“CHAP”). We are licensed by the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health, and certified as a Medicare provider by the Department of Health and Human Services, Health Care Financing Administration. The majority of our services are funded by Medicaid, Medicare and private insurers. We also benefit greatly from other income, including contributions and grants, town funding and endowment income, to cover free care and community programs.
New Millennium, New Initiatives
In 2005, The Visiting Nurse Association of Ridgefield, Inc., changed its name to Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association (abbreviated to “RVNA”) and began a strategic community education initiative to highlight our commitment to, and relationship with, the greater Ridgefield area. Today, our service area has expanded to 35+ towns across several counties in Connecticut.
In 2007, RVNA adopted progressive technologies that enabled clinicians to create and access electronic medical records, and to also work remotely in order to meet clients’ needs. In 2009, we introduced the Quality Living at Home program, addressing an aging demographic and becoming a regional leader among aging-in- place programs.
Recognized as one of the top agencies in our field for our strength, dedication and compassion, RVNA received the Hearst Top Workplace Award and was named to the HomeCare Elite. Both awards distinguish Medicare-certified agencies among the top 25% of providers nationwide. We have since won the Top Workplace Award more than ten times.
RVNA celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2014 and the century mark introduced a new era of progress and growth, with RVNA offering an expanded range of in-home and onsite services aligned with our mission and vision.
In 2014, we began offering non-medical caregivers to complement our clinical services (RVNAhealth Caregiving Services). In 2016, we relocated to a new building on Governor Street in Ridgefield, the Center for Exceptional Care. It features clinical rooms, a teaching kitchen, and the RVNAhealth Therapy Center. In 2018, we extended our services to include end-of-life care, with RVNAHealth Hospice Services.
Over the decades, our agency’s name and logo have evolved: Founded as the District Nursing Association, we became the Visiting Nurse Association of Ridgefield, and then Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association in 2006. On October 5, 2019, we announced our new name, RVNAhealth. The new name deliberately preserves our organization’s legacy and roots, yet better conveys the breadth and depth of the services and regional area we serve. RVNAhealth aligns well with our commitment to serve the lifelong care and wellness needs of individuals in the communities we serve.
In the fall of 2020, RVNAhealth merged operations with Bethel Visiting Nurse Association, and New Milford Visiting Nurse & Hospice. The single agency operates as RVNAhealth with the primary location in Ridgefield CT and a branch office in New Milford. The new RVNAhealth presently serves 35+ towns in Connecticut, located in Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven counties.
We are excited and well-positioned to address the changing face of health care with a strategic vision for the future, while remaining committed to our mission of providing exceptional home and community health care services, supporting public health and safety and promoting the highest quality of life.
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.
