Using Ultraviolet UV Rays for Coronavirus Covid-19 Sanitizing
April 19th, 2020aging in place, Caregiver Employment, Caregiver Service, Companion Caregiver, Dementia Care, Elderly Care, Home Care, Home Healthcare, Homecare, House Cleaning, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services,
Because of the Coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic, Polish Care Services team has been researching global solutions to eliminate viruses and bacteria, to better understand how to improve on care quality for its seniors and disabled clients, also to improve its residential and commercial cleaning operations.
Our primary source has always been the CDC and its guidelines. However we believe in gathering and analyzing enough scientific data from credible sources to make informed decisions, for more effective outcomes.
During our research for a no mess solution, we were enlightened about the benefits of Ultraviolet rays for sterilization purposes.
Coronavirus Covid-19 Survival and Transmission
According to the Annual Reviews Covid-19 type viruses transmission is seasonal and cyclical and will primarily occur during December through April. Transmission was found to be most efficient under 23°C/ 73.4°F/ 30% relative humidity RH conditions, and least efficient at 23°C/73.4°F/ 50% RH and 5°C /73.4° F/ 70% RH.
What is Ultra Violet light
Ultraviolet light is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is used for for summer tans, sunburns also makes black-light posters glow. However, too much exposure to UV radiation is damaging to living tissue.
UV is generally divided into three sub-bands:
● UVA, or near UV (315–400 nm)
● UVB, or middle UV (280–315 nm)
● UVC, or far UV (180–280 nm)
The greater the intensity and exposure, the more dangerous it is for organisms. UV-C is considered the most safe when used with precautions.
How does it Work
According to the National Institutes of Health NIH Ultraviolet short-wave radiation destroys DNA in living microorganisms.
The effectiveness of UVC’s is directly related to its intensity and exposure time.
Although UV-C LEDs are relatively new to the commercial market, it is becoming more popular in global communities.
UV-C LEDs targets a specific wavelength needed for disinfection. This is important considering that pathogens vary in their sensitivity to specific UV wavelengths. The benefits of LEDs are unlimited daily cycle, instant on/off and mercury free. Most handheld ultraviolet LED sanitizer wands has a shield that minimize light and radiation contact with user.
What are the Dangers
Dangers of too much exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a known cause of skin cancer, skin aging, eye damage, and may affect the immune system.
Further research is needed for the consistent use of Ultraviolet sterilization, although most studies shows that the use of these devices with the proper precautions, can be effective and relatively safe. Virus in hard to reach areas such as cracks and crevices may not have the adequate exposure to be eradicated, and can still survive.
It is recommended to use sanitizing solutions with ultraviolet rays to be more effective.
Best Solutions
Best solutions are still social distancing, hand washing, disinfecting surfaces, and wearing mask when necessary. If possible, seniors and those with preexisting conditions should avoid areas with large groups or gatherings, as the risk of contracting the virus is more elevated in these settings.
In home care with a personal caregiver may be the best viable option. Without a vaccine, and because of the cyclical nature of the Covid-19 virus, this indicates occurrences will be seasonal and cyclical December – April.
Polish Care Services provides caregivers for seniors and disabled, we also provide cleaners for homes, and janitors for offices and business.
Please visit us at polishcareservices.com or phone 860-255-8278 or email [email protected] so we can better understand your needs.
Caring for Seniors: Need to Fall Prevention in Future
March 31st, 2020Caregiver Service, Companion Caregiver, Elderly Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services, Uncategorized,
The fear of falling at home is a major concern for seniors and their caregivers. While falls can cause injury, learning how to prevent them is key to being able to help seniors stay at home safely and receive the necessary assistance from caregivers to make their in home care experience better.
Being Aware of the Risk Factors
When it comes to fall prevention, making the home safe so that falls don’t happen is something to consider. However, there are risk factors that contribute to falls other than home safety.
– Medications impact fall risk. Some medications cause dizziness or dehydration. In some cases, two medicines might react badly with each other and contribute to falls.
– Poor balance, gait, or a visual impairment impacts a person’s ability to function normally, leaving them more susceptible to falls.
– Conditions and diseases can increase a fall risk too due to symptoms like dizziness and compromised balance .
Start Simple
Fall prevention can be as simple as asking the client about their own concerns. It’s not uncommon for a senior to be concerned due to risk factors such as the ones described above. Starting with a discussion can help a caregiver or loved one determine why the senior in question has fall concerns. By learning about them, you can create a plan together.
Poor balance and lower body weakness contribute to falls. Simply doing exercises that focus on improving strength and balance can help prevent them. Simple fall prevention measures to take include making sure areas around the home are well-lit including having nightlights in the bedroom and bathroom. Install grab bars by the toilet, shower, and bath, and move items out of the way that may be a fall hazard.
Make Staying Safe Around the House Easier
Falls can occur because of small but important things. Wearing the wrong footwear can contribute to falls. All footwear should fit comfortably and not be loose. Furniture like beds, chairs, and sofas should be a comfortable height to make them easier to get in and out of. Any loose carpeting should be properly secured and throw rugs removed. Use nonskid treads on the stairs.
The thought of falling might be scary. But they are preventable.
For more fall prevention tips, contact Polish Care Services. Our knowledgeable senior care staff will be happy to answer your questions.
Polish Care Services Essential Services COVID19- Update
March 22nd, 2020Caregiver Service, Companion Caregiver, Elderly Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services, Uncategorized,
Because of the governor’s order 7H to shelter in place slated to be in effect Monday March 23rd at 8:00 PM. Polish Care Services is postponing essential services such as cleaning and janitorial services until this travel restriction is lifted.
We will still be providing caregivers for seniors and the disabled as this is classified as essential services.
We are closely monitoring the CDC website and updating our employee training portal, as the health and safety of our employees and clients are of utmost importance.
We are constantly reinforcing the basics:
Wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and warm water often.
Use sanitizers of 60% or more alcohol.
Avoid touching face.
Practice social distancing
If there is a fever or cold, alert the agency immediately.
If there is contact with someone with the virus, self quarantine, consult a doctor and inform the agency.
Mental health: Tune out from the negative news, and social media ever so often, find some way to relax through communication, music, meditation and exercise.
Please stay safe and healthy, together we will get though this and be stronger.
Agnes,
Polish Care Service
Polish Care Services Update on COVID19- Coronavirus
March 16th, 2020aging in place, Caregiver Service, Companion Caregiver, Dementia Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services, Uncategorized,
Dear Customers,
We want to thank you for allowing Polish Care Services to make a difference in your lives with continued service, and we look forward to continued care in 2020.
As the success of our business is extremely important to each of us, we would like to provide you with an update on the Covid19 – Coronavirus, its effects and impacts on caregiver and cleaning services, our customers, employees and stakeholders.
All employees are trained on the necessary precautions, including guidelines from the CDC.
This includes:
Hand washing 20 second rule
Using sanitizers
Disinfecting areas
Use gloves when necessary
Keep hands away from face
Wear masks when necessary
Minimize use of personal space
Employees are constantly informed though their employee training portal, and updates from CDC to ensure the health and safety of themselves and our clients.
We hope all will keep healthy, safe and calm during this time.
Sincerely
Agnes
Polish Care Services
Caring for Seniors: Exercise Tips for The Elderly
March 6th, 2020aging in place, Alzheimer's Care, Caregiver Service, Dementia Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services,
Exercise is essential for seniors. Physical exercise helps seniors maintain and improve their balance as well as prevent falls. It also can help the elderly from losing muscle mass and bone density.
Exercising the mind is just as important as physical exercise. Doing active exercises with the mind helps prevent the onset of dementia and keeps seniors engaged. Here are tips to help seniors get the most out of physical exercise while staying mentally sharp.
Make the Most Out of a Chair
Many seniors are afraid of hurting themselves during physical exercise. The good news is that a chair is the perfect platform for working on different parts of the body from the shoulders or chest, and you can even use it to do modified pushups. A chair can also help keep you steady as you work on your balance while lifting a leg off the floor or doing toe lifts.
Make Exercise Work for You
Exercise is often difficult for seniors due to fears of getting hurt,being in pain or simply doing more than is necessary. Don’t be afraid to ask your medical professional what exercises might work best for you. Try to find something you like doing such as walking, visiting the pool, or using an exercise machine. A caregiver for seniors could help you stay safe during these activities. Never do anything that causes you pain and be creative when it comes to making time pass while exercising. Watch TV or listen to a book or a podcast.
Keep Mentally Fit
Common exercises for keeping mentally active as a senior are usually things like crossword puzzles or sudoku. But there are so many other ways to keep your brain sharp. Taking an art class or taking up drawing helps keep your mind focused. Learn a language or another skill you’re interested in. Puzzles and card games are other activities that help improve memory and thinking skills.
Engaging all of your senses; touch, smell, hearing, taste, and sight by cooking something or visiting a new place is another way to keep your neurons firing.
Changing it Up
Don’t be afraid to try something new either. Just the act of changing your daily routine a little bit can help your brain. Play music more often or try learning an instrument. You could even try meditation. It reduces stress, helps with memory, and improves mental processing.
It doesn’t matter how you decide to exercise your body and your mind as long as you stick to it.
Polish Care Services is dedicated to helping clients stay physically and mentally healthy with its in home care services. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to help clients stay physically safe and mentally fit at home. Contact us today to learn more.
Comprehensive Guide to Caring for Senior Citizens In-Home Care
February 27th, 2020aging in place, Alzheimer's Care, Caregiver Service, Dementia Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services,
People who care for senior citizens need to be knowledgeable and caring. In fact, caring for senior citizens means taking care of your elderly loved ones by providing the necessary care and attention. It also includes making sure that they get enough rest and get their daily exercise both physically and mentally.
It is vital to understand that caring for seniors are different from caring for children. This is because senior citizens may have more complex health issues, which can be worse than those of someone who are of a much younger age. As a result, they are prone to ailments that other people may be able to recover from with simple treatments. In some cases, these illnesses are even life threatening. There are many options for care givers, and those needing to care for senior citizens.
The first option for caring for senior citizens is in home care. This entails working with a nurse or care aide to monitor the elderly person’s needs on a day-to-day basis. When the family members are unable to care for the person, a caregiver will be able to provide the necessary help for the individual. This type of care is appropriate for senior citizens who require minimal monitoring. Instead of having the elderly live in the home, he/she may rather live in a nursing facility. Some caregivers have more knowledge and experience with this method of care.
There are many options for care than in home care, such as independent living facility, assisted living facility, and nursing homes. These are not just for seniors who are very ill, but for the vibrant and young at heart. However, in home care is a trending and preferred option as this allows seniors to enjoy the comforts of home and independence. Moreover this option is less costly. Aging In Place allows seniors modify their home to make it easier for him/her to navigate safely.
There are the programs that provide assistance to an individual. This assistance can include the services of a professional who will prepare meals, light housekeeping, assist with bathing, personal care, dressing, medication reminders, companionship, hobbies and cognitive care.
There are those that provide counseling services for senior citizens. While some of the people will prefer to work with the professional, others will prefer to go through the counseling program and have someone to guide them on the process. Seniors will be given support in terms of learning how to manage their finances and do the things that are important to them. All in all, there are several programs and forms of assistance that can be provided to senior citizens. Some include group therapy, home help, and family counseling.
Each form of assistance comes with different types of treatment methods. For example, group therapy and group treatment are helpful because of the support that can be given to the person. Home help involves the use of an individual, usually a friend or relative, to do all the chores that the senior citizen cannot do himself or herself.
Seniors who are concerned about being alone often prefer the family counseling method. This method involves the services of a caring person who will help the person develop a positive attitude and make sure that he/she gets enough rest. Family counseling also involves the role of support groups and other activities that can keep the person’s mind active.
If you are looking for excellent care for one of your family members or friends, Polish Care Services is an excellent choice. Visit their website to learn more at polishcareservices.com or feel free to contact us by phone at (860) 255-8278. You and your family member will be happy that you did!
Exploring Long-Term Care Options: In-Home Care, Nursing Homes
January 25th, 2020aging in place, Alzheimer's Care, Caregiver Service, Dementia Care, Elderly Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services,
There are several options available to help those individuals in need of long-term care. Long term assistance care is a type of specialized care that involves providing comfort and care for individuals who are older or who are suffering from any type of disability or illness that does not allow them to properly care for themselves.
There are different kinds of long-term care, including institutional care, in-home care, nursing home care, adult day care, and assisted living care. Each individual has their own needs and each individual has their own set of challenges when it comes to providing long term care. These can include some that are based on physical conditions, others that are based on physical conditions or mental health concerns.
For those individuals who are in need of long-term care, there are many options available to help them. There are several types of long-term care available today. These include group homes, intermediate care facilities, personal care homes, and personal care agencies. With the help of these programs you can be able to choose what you need and make your own choices. Many individuals will choose to live in their own personal care home or community residential care facilities. As you research long term care options, you should remember that each situation is unique and that no two individuals are the same.
When considering long term care options, you must first decide if you want a facility, community residential care or personal care home. It is important to consider these options before choosing one. To do this, you should research the various options.
Some of the problems with long term care is that the costs of care can become a financial burden. This is due to the fact that the medical bills tend to be substantial for the individual in need of long-term care. There are often many bills associated with long term care, so it may be wise to know what you are looking at before deciding on a particular facility or plan.
Long term care can help the individual you are caring for by providing comfort and care. This may also include help with activities that the individual needs. When you are choosing long term care options, you must know what to expect in order to be sure that you are doing the right thing. When it comes to long term care, there are different types of choices. These are rehabilitation, which is used for individuals with physical and mental disabilities, the last type of long-term care is the nursing home care.
The rehabilitation type of long-term care is a very good option for individuals who are older and are in need of some type of physical activity. Rehabilitation is used for seniors who have lived a long life and are not physically fit. They need assistance to get more physical activity. The physical activity level of a senior is sometimes the determining factor in whether or not a patient is eligible for rehabilitation. Rehabilitation can also be used to help those who are young and who are in need of socialization and the emotional support of friends and family.
It is important to speak with your family member about their options. If there are any concerns, you should discuss with them before you make any decisions. You want to make sure that you will be able to provide all the care that they need when you decide to use long term care.
If you are looking for long term care solutions in Connecticut, there is no better place than Polish Care Services. Polish Care Services is located at 254 Main Street, Farmington, CT 06032 and can be reached by telephone at (860) 255-8278. Hours of operation are 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday – Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm. On Sundays the office is closed. The 24 hour line is available for emergency situations. Feel free to visit the website at https://polishcareservices.com/ to see the list of services. You will be happy that you did!
Three Reasons to Make a Long Term Care Plan
November 5th, 2019aging in place, Alzheimer's Care, Caregiver Service, Dementia Care, Elderly Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Senior Care Services,
Aging tends to sneak up on all of us. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make a plan for how to account for the care you or your loved one may need over the long-term. In fact, planning for long term care can help you maintain the lifestyle you’re used to. Here are three reasons why you or your loved one should create a long term care plan.
Long-Term Care Insurance Does Not Account for Everything
Many people obtain long-term care insurance as a way of planning for their long term care needs. And while it does have many benefits, you or your loved one should plan for what it does not cover such as:
· Who will be a caregiver?
· Will any family members who become caregivers need to leave or take an absence from their job?
· Who pays for expenses not covered by long term care insurance?
You Can Choose Where You Want to Be
Planning for your long term needs in advance means that you can choose whether you want to stay in your home. If maintaining your independence at home is a concern as you age, consider hiring an agency that provides in-home care services into your plan.
In home care agencies employ caregivers that help seniors maintain their independence at home by helping to cook and clean around the house, drive to appointments, and help with bathing and dressing. Even if you plan to have a family member be a caregiver, in home care providers may be able to help when a family member is unavailable.
Guard Against the Unexpected
Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. When you plan for your own long term care or that of your loved ones, it helps make an unexpected hospitalization health challenge, or other concern a little easier to navigate. Often, unexpected events lead to disagreements among family members about what happens next. By making a long term care plan now, you will reduce the likelihood of disagreements and make sure the person in need of care gets what they want.
Planning for the future comes with its own challenges, especially where getting older is concerned. But making a plan for long term care including whether or not you need in home care is one way to make aging a fact rather than a challenge that seems insurmountable.
Polish Care Services provides trained and experienced caregivers to assist seniors in their home or care facilities. Call 860-255-8278 to see how our caregivers can assist you or your loved one. We accept various payment methods, including long-term insurance for live in or hourly care to assist seniors with in home care needs.
Polish Care Services Hartford’s Finest Series
September 27th, 2019aging in place, Alzheimer's Care, Caregiver Service, Dementia Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services,
Thank you for nominating and featuring Polish Care Services as part of the Hartford Courant and CTNow Hartford’s Finest series.
Polish Care Services is a a senior care agency in Farmington, Connecticut that provide caregivers for seniors in Connecticut.
The care team accepts longterm insurance, private pay, and Medicaid for live in and hourly services.
Prepare: Rooms in Your Home for an Elderly Loved One to Move
June 21st, 2019aging in place, Caregiver Service, Dementia Care, Elderly Care, In Home Care, Long Term Care, Polish Care Services, Senior Care Services,
If you have an elderly loved one in your life who has reached a stage of being unable to safely live alone, it is a kind and loving gesture to open up your elderly home to take them in. This may be an alternate means to manage costs, and with a caregiver service, still manage the quality of care care that is required. Bringing any roommate into your home requires some changes. So, here are tips on how to get your home ready for your elderly loved.
Decide Where the Bedroom Will Be
You need to decide first which bedroom is best for them to use. In a two-story home, you will want to put their bedroom downstairs to avoid the stairs if possible. According to Science Direct, stairway falls represent a high percentage of falls and often result in severe injury. If avoiding the stairs isn’t an option, there are things that you can do to make them safer. Make sure that you have a sturdy handrail, and replace any carpet that is high fiber or slippery. You should install light switches at both the top and bottom of the stairs to ensure that they are well lit.
Bedroom Preparations
Once you have figured out which bedroom your loved one will use, you need to make the bedroom as safe as possible. The height of the bed matters when your body is less agile. Make sure that they can easily sit on the edge of the bed with their feet planted on the ground. You also want to arrange the furniture so that the room has spacious walkways, especially if a walker or cane is being used. Remove all rugs to avoid tripping, and add ample light to illuminate the room. With a few simple adjustments and modifications, this room can be a safe and relaxing retreat for your loved one.
Make Your Bathroom Safe
The bathroom can be one of the most dangerous rooms in your house. Depending on the setup of your bathroom, consider a complete remodel if it’s in your budget. Instead of a traditional bathtub/shower combo, you could install a walk-in shower with a seat and handrails. There are even showers that are curbless, meaning you do not need to step over anything to walk into the shower. Regardless of your setup, make sure that you have no-slip mats in the shower, bathtub, and around the bathroom floor. According to the Toiletsman, you may also want to consider raising the height of your toilet and installing handrails next to it. Lowering your body down and up can often be challenging and dangerous for an aging senior.
Living Room Adjustments
Like other rooms in your home, your living room may possibly need a few modifications as well. The primary objective is safety and comfort; look at the flooring and make sure there is nothing in the walkways that would be a tripping hazard, including rug corners, cords, and miscellaneous décor. Falling is the leading cause of injury in the elderly, so it is important to create safe walkways in every area of your house. Make sure that you have adequate lighting in your living room and that it is easy for your loved one to access. Install switches and dimmers near each entrance into your living space — a well-lit area is a safer space.
Once your home has been modified for your loved one, consider hiring a home care service to come in and help, especially if you still must go to work during the day. Companies like Polish Care Services will come to your home and provide a number of helpful services including personal care, cleaning, and even just companionship. With the right preparation and a little help, you will be able to provide a nurturing and safe home for your elderly loved one.
Credit: June Duncan