NEW! RVNAhealth Dementia Education & Resources Program

RVNAhealth is excited to announce the introduction of its new Dementia Education & Resources Program, launching officially in March! The new program is aimed at those diagnosed in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other dementias, and for family members or caregivers at any stage of caring for a loved one. With RVNAhealth’s extensive experience providing care and healthcare services for those with dementia, the new Dementia Education & Resources Program will introduce a robust calendar of educational, therapeutic and support components to our communities – all free of charge.

The Dementia Program “Why”

Many find the staggering statistics around dementia surprising. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in three seniors, ages 65+, dies with a form of dementia. And even more surprising, many facing the diagnosis of dementia disease find there are very few resources to turn to for education, care, and support.  Gigi Weiss, MSPT, RVNAhealth Senior Director of Rehabilitative Therapies and Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) has witnessed the stories of dementia patients and their families firsthand. “Newly diagnosed dementia patients and their families often discover a harsh and frustrating reality of scattered resources. Many are left to face the battle on their own – one that can be frustrating, scary, and life-changing for both the individual and their loved ones and caregivers,” says Weiss. “This new program from RVNAhealth is intended to help fill that resources gap. We aim to provide regular education and therapeutic programs, and support groups to serve early to mid-stage dementia patients and loved ones and caregivers at all stages of the journey.”

RVNAhealth Dementia & Resources Program Formal Kickoff – March 7th

The RVNAhealth Dementia Education & Resources Program kicks off formally at our Ridgefield office event on March 7th from 1:00-2:30pm (in-person or via Zoom) with a presentation by guest physician, Dr. Alison McElhone, Gerontologist from Stamford Health, who will speak about the importance of early evaluation in cognitive decline and dementia. Also, during this event, Weiss and other RVNAhealth dementia experts will present introductory education and and an overview of our new resources program, including the calendar lineup of internal and external dementia experts scheduled to present on topics ranging from nutritional impacts, to understanding the linkage with hearing loss, recommended home modifications, and more (see details below). To register to attend this event in-person or virtually, please view our event and follow the registration link.

Upcoming lineup of events following our kickoff:

  • March 26th: Understanding the Cognitive Benefits of Exercise in Dementia Care
  • April 4th: The Impact of Nutrition on Dementia Care
  • April 9th: The Unheard Connection: Exploring the Link between Hearing Loss and Dementia
  • May 8th: Helping You Meet the Dementia Challenge
  • May 16th: Home Modifications for Dementia-Friendly Living
  • June 4th: Legal and Long-Term Financial Planning in Dementia Care
  • June 18th: Hospice Care and Comfort – End Stage Dementia: A Compassionate Approach
  • Plus ongoing support groups

Need Dementia Information or Support Sooner?

Leading up to our March 7th formal kickoff, we are excited to also offer an educational event, “Helping You Meet The Dementia Challenge,” at the Ridgefield Library on February 15th from 1:30-2:30pm.  Weiss and RVNAhealth’s Danielle Taibi, Home Health Aide Supervisor – both Certified Dementia Practitioners, 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. Please register HERE to attend this Feb 15th event.

RVNAhealth also continues its existing dedication to dementia support through its monthly Alzheimer’s Association-backed support groups.  RVNAhealth’s own Melissa Wutke, HHA Supervisor, Certified Dementia Practitioner, facilitates an Alzheimer’s Association monthly caregiver support group at RVNAhealth in Ridgefield.

Stay In Touch With Us

To stay in touch with us about details or to register for any of these or RVNAhealth’s other educational and program offerings, please check out our calendar of events regularly.  And if you would like to subscribe to our RVNAhealth Dementia-specific communications, please sign up HERE.

RVNAhealth’s First Annual Parkinson’s Symposium Recap

“Living Well With Parkinson’s” …a name apropos for RVNAhealth’s first annual Parkinson’s Symposium, was held at the RVNAhealth Ridgefield office on Friday, January 26th. With over 60 attendees and nearly 20 healthcare experts presenting or hosting information tables, the three hour event successfully delivered an agenda packed with information for both newly and existing diagnosed Parkinson’s patients, loved ones and care partners.

The Parkinson’s Symposium was the brainchild of Dr. Kate Campbell, Director of RVNAhealth’s Parkinson’s Center and Outpatient Rehabilitation. “After nearly a year since the launch of ourParkinson's Symposium Quote Parkinson’s Center, I wanted to create an opportunity to bring together some of the best local experts from within RVNAhealth and other healthcare institutions. Our goals was to give the Parkinson’s community an afternoon to gather in one place and immerse themselves in learning and helpful discussion,” said Campbell. Main stage presentations included topics on the benefits of exercise, awake versus asleep deep brain stimulation, the importance of Movement Disorder Specialists, and the role of sleep in Parkinson’s. Breakout sessions gave participants an opportunity to customize their afternoon of PD learning. These options ranged from exercise demos, and cooking and nutrition, to information on clinical trials, mental health tips, and an overview from an organization dedicated to hiking trips for people with PD.

RVNAhealth would like to thank our visiting presenters:  Dr. Zion Zibly and Dr. Sophie Holmes and Sophie Elliott, Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Sarah Buckingham, Stamford Health, and Dr. Leon Meytin, Hartford Healthcare. We would also like to add a tremendous thanks to our RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center staff who lead presentations, exercise classes, nutrition discussions, and more! Finally, we thank our sponsors who helped to make this event possible: Abbott, Abbvie, APDA of Connecticut, Medtronic, and Supernus.

With a successful first Parkinson’s Symposium complete, there is little downtime for Campbell as she continues with plans for the Parkinson’s Center’s second year in operation. “There’s a lot to be excited about at the Parkinson’s Center – we are taking more of our presentations out into the community, we are testing out new and more exercise class options, and we are soon kicking off our second Parkinson’s Bootcamp cohort, where we’ll work intensely with about 10 individuals over the course of 8 weeks. If you haven’t heard about Bootcamp, you should! We are making real life change and enabling individuals with powerful tools to take control of their Parkinson’s diagnosis–contact us to learn more!” says Campbell. “We are passionate about offering these resources to the Parkinson’s community – we are a place for community, compassion, health and wellness, and a partner in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.”

For more information about the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center, check out our webpage, call 203-438-5555 ext 1082 or email ParkinsonsCenterLeaders@rvnahealth.org.

Visiting physician speakers in the main hall
Breakout session on Gut Health
Our sponsor and PD experts informational hall
Lunch and time to speak with PD experts
Our sponsor and PD experts informational hall
Visiting physician speakers in the main hall
Breakout session – Demo boxing class
Dr. Kate Campbell, RVNAhealth Director of Outpatient Rehabilitation and Parkinson’s Center

 

RVNAhealth Partner in Care – Wilton Meadows and The Greens at Cannondale

RVNAhealth has partnered with Wilton Meadows and The Greens at Cannondale for twenty-five years, since The Greens opened its 142-bed assisted living and memory care community in nearby Wilton.

Anna Mae S., a resident of The Greens, is building strength following a fall thanks to the help of RVNAhealth Physical Therapist Jennifer Cangialosi PT, DPT, LSVT BIG, CDP, who works on-site in the RVNAhealth Therapy Gym.

The privately owned assisted living facility has sponsored our Wellness Fair since the beginning, enabling RVNAhealth to provide area seniors with free health screenings and vaccinations. Over time, The Greens/Wilton Meadows increased their support of our events and programs; they are now a member of RVNAhealth’s Governor Society of dedicated partners who commit $1,000 or more in annual support.

RVNAhealth caregivers spend a lot of time on the beautiful Cannondale Campus. Our agency provides skilled nursing, private-duty nursing, home health aides, and hospice care. We also manage an on-site physical therapy clinic to help residents maintain their strength and balance. We offer wellness programs for residents and this year we’ll be providing Dementia Caregiver Training and certification for staff at The Greens, too.

Ellen Casey, Senior Executive Director of The Greens is a firm believer in the many benefits of working with RVNAhealth: “Like The Greens, RVNAhealth is a private care provider that emphasizes quality and personal attention. Their excellent communication across levels of care helps our staff provide the highest quality, personalized services to our residents, even as their needs change,” she said. “RVNAhealth is truly part of our care team.”

The award-winning Cannondale Campus consists of The Greens at Cannondale Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, Wilton Meadows Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, and Nuvance Health’s Geriatric Assessment Program.

For more information about becoming a member of the RVNAhealth Governor Society, contact Jennifer Christensen, Donor Engagement Officer, at jchristensen@rvnahealth.org, or (203) 856-5137. For more information about the Greens, visit their website.

One Nutrition Habit For Your New Year!

Nutrition - About Soy

If you could adopt just one nutrition habit for a lifetime of wellness, what would it be? The answer may surprise you—it’s regular soy consumption.

Tell Me More.

Soy contains phytoestrogens—plant hormones with a unique way of supporting your health. When you consume soy, these phytoestrogens gently bind to your estrogen receptors, effectively blocking more potent and potentially harmful forms of estrogen encountered in our environment (such as endocrine disruptors found in our cookware and products). Simultaneously, they may have mildly estrogen-stimulating effects, particularly beneficial for individuals with low estrogen levels, like those going through menopause. This dual action makes soy a potent ally in promoting your well-being.

What does the research say?

Numerous studies support the remarkable effects of soy phytoestrogens. Research indicates that regular consumption of 20-60 grams of soy isoflavones (equivalent to about 1/4 block of firm tofu) can significantly reduce hot flashes and night sweats in menopausal women. Additionally, evidence suggests that diets rich in natural sources of phytoestrogens, like soy, may lead to a reduction in osteoporosis, cognitive decline, and the risk of breast and colon cancers. Notably, soy is a staple in the Mediterranean diet, one of the most widely studied and supported diets worldwide.

What foods contain phytoestrogens?

Enjoying soy is both easy and delicious. You can savor it in various forms, including tofu, tempeh, edamame, and soy milk.

How Often?

The good news is that you can incorporate soy into your daily diet! With its versatile options and proven benefits, it’s a choice that promises a lifetime of radiant health.

As you ponder your lifelong nutrition choices, consider the incredible benefits of soy. It’s a simple yet impactful choice for your long-term well-being. If you have questions or need personalized advice on incorporating soy into your diet, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your health is our priority.

RVNAhealth Nutrition Resources

Explore our Nutrition Services

Email Us With Any Questions

Book or Reschedule a Nutrition Appointment

Want to Subscribe to Our Monthly Nutrition Newsletter?

Fairfield County Bank ’23 Nursing Scholarships Announced

2023 Fairfield County Bank Nursing Scholarship Winners at RVNAhealth

Pictured left to right: Lauren Messina, Hospice RN; Keri Linardi, RVNAhealth Chief Clinical Officer; Dan Berta, President of Fairfield County Bank; Theresa Santoro, RVNAhealth President & CEO; Jennifer Christensen, RVNAhealth Donor Engagement Officer; Missing: Elaine Leitao, QAPI RN

The gift of education is an investment in an individual, unlocking their potential, providing knowledge, and wielding the power to shape the trajectory of their life. Each year since 2019, a fortunate few RVNAhealth staff members have been recipients of this invaluable gift, made possible by scholarships generously provided by Fairfield County Bank—a steadfast supporter and believer in the mission of RVNAhealth.

The 2023 recipients of the Fairfield County Bank Nursing Scholarships include:

Elaine Leitao, QAPI RN, HCS-D, started with RVNAhealth in 2018 as a field nurse, left the agency for a brief time, and returned in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. She is working on her MSN at Chamberlain University. “The significance of this scholarship in shaping my journey and guiding me to my present position cannot be overstated. The support from Fairfield County Bank and RVNAhealth has empowered me to strive for excellence in both personal and professional aspects. I look forward to my continued future career growth with RVNAhealth!”

Lauren Messina, RVNAhealth Hospice RN with client
Lauren Messina, Hospice RN, with client

Lauren Messina, Hospice RN, recently completed her APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) with the help of the scholarship. Joining RVNAhealth during the pandemic, she echoed similar appreciation. “I feel extremely fortunate to have been a beneficiary of the scholarship granted by Fairfield County Bank. My interest in advancing my education and returning for my APRN occurred during COVID, as I was encouraged and inspired by those around me.  The scholarship allowed me financial assistance while also providing me with a sense of support from the RVNAhealth community. I am looking forward to utilizing this advanced certification to improve the quality of the lives of those individuals we are dedicated to caring for.”

Keri Linardi, Chief Clinical Officer, RN, BSN, PHN, CHPCA is attending Central Connecticut State University to complete her Master of Science in Nursing. As both a recipient of this scholarship and clinical leader at RVNAhealth, Keri added, “These annual awards have impacted so many in the RVNAhealth organization. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Fairfield County Bank for investing in the education of our employees and not only broadening the horizons of our staff but also contributing to the strength of our team as a whole.”

A True Partner, Mentor, and Friend

Fairfield County Bank sponsorship of RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast
Fairfield County Bank table at RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast 2023
Thank you to Fairfield County Bank for donation of their billboard space to RVNAhealth
RVNAhealth billboard on I-95 in Norwalk, thanks to Fairfield County Bank!

Fairfield County Bank has been a steadfast partner of RVNAhealth for nearly three decades. Through lead sponsorships at fundraising events, serving on our Board of Directors, the Nursing Scholarship Program, donating space on their I-95 billboard in Norwalk, and through their dedicated employees who have supported us with invaluable guidance, advice, and unwavering support through numerous volunteer hours — Fairfield County Bank’s influence on RVNAhealth is beyond measure. As summarized by Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, CHCA, President & CEO of RVNAhealth, “They stand as not just a sponsor, but a true partner, mentor, and friend. We are profoundly appreciative.”

 

Thank You from RVNAhealth’s Director of Philanthropy

RVNAhealth donor giving

In my role as RVNAhealth’s Director of Philanthropy, I work with my team to raise funds and awareness to support our mission of delivering unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed.

It is never lost on me that no matter what I or my team does in pursuit of that mission, it would not exist without you, our donors, sponsors, and volunteers. You make all the difference to us and to the many who would not otherwise have access to healthcare.

This is the best part of my job … my favorite part … saying thank you. Thank you for your support, whether it is given in time, expertise, financial gifts, or helping to raise awareness of our incredibly impactful organization.  Together, we are making our communities stronger and healthier.

This past year, with your help …

  • 62,461 healthcare visits were made to patients in their homes.
  • 454 hospice patients received compassionate end-of-life care, including 1,400 hospice volunteer hours.
  • 362 children with limited access to basic, preventive healthcare received school-required physicals and immunizations at no cost.
  • 7,835 visits to our outpatient Rehabilitation & Wellness Center helped patients recover strength and mobility.
  • 64 new moms and 52 babies were served by our Nurse Family Partnership program.
  • 350,630 hours of non-medical assistance with daily living needs helped people remain safe and independent at home.

While “thank you” is just two little words, they reflect a huge dose of gratitude for the powerful impact your support has had on the lives of so many.

Best wishes from RVNAhealth to you and yours for a wonderful new year filled with health and happiness.

With sincere appreciation,

Mary Jean Heller
Director of Philanthropy

Patient Provider Choice Matters & It’s Your Right!

Patient rights in choosing a health care provider

While no one likes to think about health-related “what ifs,” the unexpected does happen. For individuals that experience injury or illness resulting in a hospital stay, the road to recovery can sometimes take a while. And in some cases, a doctor will recommend continued recovery at home under the care and oversight of a home health agency, like RVNAhealth. When faced with the need for home health care, it is important to know your rights in choosing who provides that care.

The Patient’s Right to Choose

The right to choose who provides your health care is protected under federal law and it is fundamental to patient autonomy and the principle of person-centered care. Hospitals requiring discharge to home health care must inform their patients of their right and option to choose a provider.

How Should the Choice Process Work?

The process of being assigned to a home health agency should ideally involve collaboration between you or family, hospital staff (such as a Case Manager), healthcare providers, and sometimes social workers. However, due to the nation-wide shortage of healthcare workers, we often hear stories of hospital patients being preemptively assigned to a home health agency and asked if they are okay with it, or if they would like to choose another agency. While this might seem like helpful and proactive action from hospital staff, this can be ‘putting the cart before the horse’ if you just accept what has been assigned.  It’s important to empower yourself with the knowledge of what home health care is out there and what you need.

What are Some Factors I Should Use in Choosing a Home Health Agency?

  • Have you used service with a Home Health Agency in the past? If yes, it is beneficial to consider using that same agency again (assuming your prior experience was good). Returning to the same agency can offer a more seamless experience – considering the agency’s familiarity with your medical history, and your familiarity with them. Be sure to speak up and let hospital staff know what agency you used before and that you want to use them again.
  • What services do you need now and possibly need in the near term future? It is recommended that you think about services you need now as well as possible services you might need in the future. Does the agency you are considering offer all these services? For example, maybe you are a cardiac patient that needs skilled nursing and physical therapy now, but you may possibly need Palliative care in the future. Find out if the agency you choose can serve your evolving future needs. As discussed above, continuity of service with the same agency can be a tremendous asset to both you and your overall care.
  • What insurance do you have? Be very careful with this one as you don’t want a huge bill or a lack of coverage: If you have a Medicare Advantage plan or Medicaid plan, you need to validate insurance coverage before finalizing your home health agency choice. But with straight Medicare coverage you should not have insurance acceptance concerns with well-established agencies.
  • What if you have no preference or time to do your research? Ask questions! Ask your hospital Case Manager for two or three recommended choices. Ask who might serve your specific health needs (and potential future needs) best and why. Ask what geographic area they serve. Ask if their staffing is solid or if they have trouble with cancellation of visits.

As the demand for home health care continues to grow, advocating for and protecting a patient’s right to choose ensures that the evolving healthcare landscape remains centered on the needs and preferences of the individuals it serves. It’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare team, express your preferences, and ask any questions you may have about the transition to home health care. They are there to support you through the process and ensure that you receive the appropriate care tailored to your needs. If you have any questions regarding RVNAhealth services, please contact us at 203.438.5555 or visit our website at rvnahealth.org.

Stand Up To The Fear of Falling

Fall Prevention Strategies

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:

  • Know your fall risk. A good starting point is the CDC’s “STEADI” program. Their simple fall risk assessment brochure evaluates an individual’s risk for falling and encourages appropriate escalation.
  • 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 Rehabilitation & Wellness Center in Ridgefield.
  • Exercise. The Rehabilitation & Wellness Center also offers weekly drop-in Balance & Beyond and Strength & Beyond 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.
  • Nutrition. RVNAhealth’s Nutrition Services and Registered Dietitian offer one-on-one consultation and individualized nutrition strategies for patients concerned with osteoporosis and bone health, as well as for those dealing with illness or medications that might affect overall strength and stability.
  • 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, as well as a popular class called “How to Fall.” 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.

We Can’t Do What We Do Without YOU!

RVNAhealth donor giving

For 109 years, RVNAhealth has been a community-based 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.

Click here to learn more about our commitment to your community and how you can donate to support those who might not otherwise have access to care

Adaptive Equipment on Someone’s Holiday List?

RVNAhealth adaptive equipment recommendations

Okay, so adaptive equipment may not actually be on your loved one’s holiday wish list.  But for those who struggle with strength, mobility, or sensory issues, adaptive equipment can enable independence, enhance quality of life, and boost confidence. So RVNAhealth is here to offer great suggestions that might make someone’s holiday brighter!

Our clinicians are always eager to share suggestions on equipment that can make life easier when it comes to mobility and independence around the home. From kitchen, dressing, bed and bath, to grooming and beauty aids and even clothing — we’ve taken some of our clinicians’ most frequent recommendations and created a new webpage where you can browse these items and link directly through to purchase.

We welcome you to check back frequently as we continue to expand our list of recommended products. If you have questions regarding any of these products or usage, feel free to contact us.

See our RVNAhealth Adaptive Equipment Recommendations here!