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What is Discharge Planning?

What is Discharge Planning?

by | Apr 24, 2019 | articles, blog

DISCHARGE PLANNING

 Discharge Planning.  Discharge planning is a process to assure a smooth transition from one level of care to another.  Discharge from one facility to another of a different kind or a return home is usually determined by the patient’s condition and/or insurance coverage.

Discharge Authorization.   A doctor authorizes a patient’s release from a hospital or care facility, but discharge planning is most often done by a social worker, nurse, or case manager.

Discharge Inclusions.  Discharge planning should include:

-Evaluation of the patient by qualified personnel to determine need and/or readiness.

-Discussion with the patient or their health care representative.

-Planning for a return home or transfer to another care facility.

-Determining whether caregivers, training of family members, or other support is needed.

-Referrals to a home care agency and/or appropriate facility.

-Follow-up  appointments to evaluate the placement.

The discussion should include the physical condition of the patient; details of the types of care that will be needed; and whether discharge will be to a facility or their home.  Where the patient is placed depends upon whether or not the person’s condition is likely to improve, their physical and mental condition, and what daily activities they might need help with.  Preparations should also be made for medications; diet and meal preparation; transportation; and extra equipment might be needed–such as a wheelchair, commode, or oxygen.

The Importance Of Discharge Planning.  Discharge planning can decrease the chances that the patient is readmitted to the hospital, can establish the proper level of care, ensure medications are prescribed and given correctly, and train the caregiver to take over responsibilities.

The Caregiver’s Role. The discharge staff will not be familiar with all aspects of your circumstances. You may have physical, financial, or other limitations or obligations that affect your caregiving capabilities.   If some of the care is complicated, you may need training.

Home Care.  Listed below are responsibilities that must be handled when a patient returns home:

-Personal care: Bathing, eating, dressing, toileting.

-Daily care: Cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, finances.

-Health care: Medication management, doctor’s appointments,  therapy, wound treatment, injections, medical equipment, etc.

-Emotional care: Companionship, meaningful activities, conversation.

Community organizations can help with services such as transportation, meals, support groups, counseling, and a break from your care responsibilities. The discharge planner should be familiar with these community supports, but if not, your local senior center or a private case manager might be helpful.   If you need to hire paid in-home help, you can either hire an individual directly or go through a home care agency.

Facility Care.  If the patient is being discharged to a rehab facility or nursing home, effective transition planning should ensure continuity of care, clarification of  the current state of the patient’s health and capabilities, a review of medications, and help to select the facility to which the patient is discharged.  Convenience is a factor—you need to be able to easily get to the facility—but the quality of care is also important, and you may have to sacrifice convenience for the sake of better care.

Paying For Care After Discharge.  Medicare does not pay for all services after a patient has been discharged from the hospital. However, if something is determined by the doctor to be “medically necessary,” you may be able to get coverage for certain skilled care or equipment. You will need to check directly with the hospital, your insurer, and Medicare to find out what is covered and what you will have to pay for.

Timing Of Discharge.  If you do not agree that your loved one is ready for discharge, you have the right to appeal the decision. Talk first with the physician and discharge planner and express your reservations. You may also need to contact Medicare, Medicaid, or your insurance company.

QUESTIONS TO ASK

Questions about the illness.

-What can I expect?

-What should I watch for?

-Will we get home care and will a nurse or therapist come to our home to work with the patient? -Who pays for these services?

-How do I get advice about daily care, danger signs, and follow-up appointments?

 Questions about the care needed.

-Bathing

-Dressing

-Eating (diet restrictions, meal preparation)

-Personal hygiene

-Grooming

-Toileting

-Transfer (moving from bed to chair)

-Mobility (including walking)

-Medications

-Managing symptoms (e.g., pain or nausea)

-Special equipment needed

-Transportation

-Household chores

-Taking care of finances

 Questions for discharge to a facility.

-How long is the patient expected to remain in the facility?

-Who will select the facility?

-Is there an online resources such as www.Medicare.gov to check the facility’s rating?

-Is the facility clean, well kept, quiet, a comfortable temperature?

-Does the facility have experience working with families of my culture/language?

-Does the staff speak our language?

-Is the food nutritious and/or culturally appropriate?

-Is the building safe (smoke detectors, sprinkler system, marked exits)?

-Is the location convenient? Do I have transportation to get there?

-How many staff are on duty at any given time?

-What is the staff turnover rate?

-Is there a social worker?

-Do residents have safe access to the outdoors?

-Are there special facilities/programs for dementia patients?

-Are there means for families to interact with staff?

-Is the staff welcoming to families?

 Questions for discharge home.

-Will someone come to the home to do an assessment to see if we need home modifications?

-Is the home clean, comfortable, and safe, adequately heated/cooled, with space for any extra

equipment?

-Are there stairs?

-Will we need a ramp, handrails, grab bars?

-Are hazards such as area rugs and electric cords out of the way?

-Will we need equipment such as a hospital bed, shower chair, commode, oxygen tank? Where do I get this equipment?  Who pays for these items?

-Will we need supplies such as adult diapers, disposable gloves, skin care items? Where do I get these items?  Will insurance/Medicare/Medicaid pay for these?

-Do I need to hire additional help?

 Questions about training.

-Are there special care techniques I need to learn for such things as changing dressings, helping someone swallow a pill, giving injections, using special equipment?

-Have I been trained in transfer skills and preventing falls?

-Who will train me?

-When will they train me?

-Can I begin the training prior to the patient’s return home?

Questions about medications.

-Why is this medicine prescribed? How does it work? How long the will the medicine have to be taken?

-How will we know that the medicine is effective?

-Will this medicine interact with other medications?

-Is it prescription and nonprescription?

-Should this medicine be taken with food? Are there any foods or beverages to avoid?

-Can this medicine be chewed, crushed, dissolved, or mixed with other medicines?

-What possible side effects might be experienced with this medicine? At what point should I report these problems?

-Will the insurance program pay for this medicine?

-Is there a less expensive generic  alternative?

-Does the pharmacy provide special services such as home delivery, online refills, or medication review and counseling?

 Questions about follow-up appointments.

-What health professionals will the patient need to see?

-Have these appointments been made? If not, whom should I call to make these appointments?

-Where will the appointment be?

-What transportation arrangements need to be made?

-How will our regular doctor learn what happened in the hospital or rehab facility?

-Whom can I call with treatment questions? Is someone available 24 hours a day and on weekends?

Questions about finding help in the community.

-What agencies are available to help me with transportation or meals?

-What is adult day care and how do I find out about it?

-What public benefits is the patient eligible for?

-Where do I start to look for such assistance?

Questions about caregiver needs.

-What services will help me care for myself?

-Does my the patient require help at night?  If so, how will the caregiver get enough sleep?

-Are there things that are scary or uncomfortable for me to do, e.g., changing a diaper?

-What medical conditions and limitations do I have that make providing this care difficult?

-Where can I find counseling and support groups?

-How can I get a leave from my job to provide care?

-How can I get a respite (break) from care responsibilities to take care of my own healthcare and other needs?

 

* Adapted with permission from www.nextstepincare.org, United Hospital Fund.

 

 

Tips for Starting the Conversation – Advanced Health Care Directive

Tips for Starting the Conversation – Advanced Health Care Directive

by | Apr 24, 2019 | articles, blog

SUGGESTIONS FOR DISCUSSING AN ADVANCED HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE

An advanced health care directive—also called a living will—enables you to make choices regarding your health care and relieves family, friends, or your health care advocate of making these decisions.  Each state and/or medical care facility requires different documents.

It is important that you express your health care desires to anyone who will be involved in decisions regarding your care if/when you cannot speak for yourself:  These might include your spouse, son or daughter, siblings, a trusted friend—and definitely the person who has your health care power of attorney.   A copy of your advanced health care directive should be kept with your will and other important documents, and a copy should be given to your health care provider or medical facility.

Here are some guidelines to assist in having this discussion with family or friends who will be responsible for your health care.

-Open the conversation by asking: “If you could no longer speak for yourself and your condition is considered terminal, what would be your desires?  Would you want aggressive treatment extending your life or would you rather be kept comfortable?  Would you rather be in a nursing facility or at home?”  Getting them to talk about their desires will provide the opportunity for your to express your own wishes.

-Use a current event to open the conversation.  Example:  “I heard on the news about doctors keeping a man alive in a vegetative state for three years.  Would you want that?  I sure wouldn’t.  That is why I have expressed my wishes in this document…”

-Open the discussion by saying: “I know this isn’t easy to talk about, but if I can no longer express my wishes regarding my health care, here is what I want done….”

-Ask for their help by saying:  “While I was in the doctor’s office, I picked up this form called ‘Advanced Health Care Directive’.  Would you mind checking it over to see if I completed it correctly?

If you have difficulty talking about this subject, prepare a letter or video expressing your wishes.

Telling Others

Telling Others

by | Jan 14, 2019 | articles, blog

do not tell everything to everyone. Choose your confidants carefully.

Why tell others about your diagnosis
As the disease progresses, you will need the support of those who know and understand you. Concealing or denying your diagnosis will limit your ability to cope with the challenges ahead. While some relationships may be tested by what you are revealing, other relationships may be strengthened.
It is normal to experience fear or discomfort about sharing your diagnosis. However, talking openly with those you trust is a powerful way to educate those around you about the disease and to engage their support.

Deciding who to tell
Some individuals choose to share their diagnosis with just their closest family and friends, while others may be comfortable sharing their diagnosis with a broader group of people. Assess your personal comfort level before making this decision. You may feel more supported sharing your diagnosis with close friends and family first before telling others.
Consider the relationships in your life and determine who should be included in your disclosure:
• Who are the people I feel closest to?
• Who will continue to support me with this diagnosis?
• Who I am responsible for telling (spouse, partner, friends)?

How to share your diagnosis
After deciding to share your diagnosis, consider when to tell your news. You may want to tell others about the diagnosis as soon as you get it. Or you may want to wait until you have had time to come to terms with your diagnosis.
It was hard for everyone to accept the diagnosis. While my family had to come to terms with this new situation, so did I. I needed to put it out there so that we could begin dealing with the new me.
LuPita G., Living with Alzheimer’s disease

To increase the likelihood of a comforting reaction when you tell your friends or family about the diagnosis, find a time when you can be alone and relaxed together. Give some thought to the conversation — what do you want to say? Consider writing your thoughts on paper and bringing that with you.
When you share your diagnosis, you may want to talk about planning for the future or about how family and friends can help; you also may wish to explain more about Alzheimer’s.
Help those closest to you come to terms with your new situation by considering these questions:
• How do I think this person will react? If the reaction is something unexpected, how might I feel? What can I do in response?
• How do I want this person to treat me? The diagnosis represents a big change, but it’s only gradually that my needs will change. What do I want from this person right now?
• What does the person need from me now? What can I provide that will help?

Tips from individuals in the early stage
Go slowly.
You don’t need to talk about everything in one sitting if the person is having a reaction that is difficult for you.
Let the person know that both of you will be having different reactions about this over time.
You both can continue to talk about your thoughts and feelings throughout your relationship.
Provide educational brochures about the disease.
You can also direct him or her to alz.org for additional information.
Let the person know that you are still you.
Even though you are now living with this diagnosis, who you are and what has made you close to each other continues unchanged. Continuing your commitment to the relationship you have can be comforting to both of you.

Let people provide assistance when it makes your life easier.
Just like it helps you to feel useful and needed, helping may make them feel better, too. Accepting help is not an all-or-nothing proposition, and letting others help is not the same as being helpless. They are trying to make life easier for you, and it may help you to let them do that when it feels appropriate.

Responses to diagnosis
Consider how you felt after hearing your diagnosis for the first time. Just like you, the people with whom you share your diagnosis will likely experience similar reactions including fear, anger or relief that there is an explanation for symptoms. You may encounter unexpected or negative reactions. Family and friends may react with denial, or with comments or behavior that reflect their misconceptions about Alzheimer’s disease. Responses may include, “But you seem to be fine” or “You’re too young to have dementia.”
Denial is a common response to the disclosure of a serious illness; it provides distance from overwhelming feelings. Stigma or misconceptions about Alzheimer’s may exist due to a lack of information. These reactions reflect the person’s need for more time and/or education before they can respond to you in helpful ways. Allow your family or friends time to digest your news so everyone can move forward together in a positive way.
Your first conversation about your diagnosis may grow into an ongoing dialogue about your experience living with Alzheimer’s. Honest communication about your experience and your expectations of each other can help strengthen your connection. Learn ways you can help your family and friends adjust to your diagnosis.

Diagnosing Dementia

Diagnosing Dementia

by | Jan 14, 2019 | articles, blog, Uncategorized

DIAGNOSING DEMENTIA

 

Importance Of A Diagnosis.  It is important to have a professional diagnosis of dementia for the following reasons:

-To eliminate and/or treat other medical problems–for example, a brain tumor, chemical     imbalance, thyroid issues, etc.  Even a urinary tract infection or dehydration in older    people can present similar cognitive symptoms.

-To enable the patient to make plans for the future including legal and financial matters     and care options.

-To benefit from available treatments.

-To allow the patient to develop a support team of family and health care professionals.

-To enable the person to live the best quality of life possible while they are able to do so

 

Obtaining A Diagnosis:   A diagnosis of dementia must be made by  medical professionals.  The evaluations should include:

 

-A physical exam.  This will include questions regarding diet, lifestyle, exercise, and use of alcohol or tobacco.  It should include a check of your blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.  The doctor will listen to your heart and lungs and perform other procedures as needed.  Blood and urine samples will be collected for testing.   A medical history will be done, including a review of your current and past illnesses and questions regarding the health of family members and whether they may have had dementia.

 

-Mental status tests. During a mental status exam, a health professional asks a patient a series of questions designed to test a range of everyday mental skills.  The outcome is compared to a scale which rates scores from normal functioning, to mild, moderate, or severe dementia.

 

-A neurological exam.  The doctor will evaluate the patient for problems that might include brain disorders other than Alzheimer’s, including stroke, Parkinson’s disease, brain tumors, or fluid accumulation on the brain, or other conditions that affect memory.  The doctor will check your eye movement, speech, coordination, muscle tone and strength, and physical sensations.

 

-Brain imaging.  A standard assessment for dementia often includes brain imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and/or computed tomography (CT).  These tests can also rule out other problems, such a brain tumor, etc.

ENCOURAGING SCRIPTURES

ENCOURAGING SCRIPTURES

by | Oct 15, 2018 | articles, blog, christian

The Bible explains exactly how to receive and/or give comfort during difficult times.

 

Comfort is found in words–His words:  “Wherefore comfort one another with these words”

(1 Thessalonians 4:18).  Jesus said:  “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11).

 

Whenever you need comfort during your difficult journey, meditate on the following passages–one of them, a few of them, or a whole bunch of them!   You might also want to read portions from the book of Psalms which contains many precious promises.

 

All verses are the King James Version unless otherwise noted.  If you have an encouraging scripture to add to this list, please email it to us.

 

Old Testament References

 

Deuteronomy 33:27: The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.

 

Joshua 1:9: Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

 

1 Chronicles 16:11: Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually.

 

2 Chronicles 15:7: Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded.

 

2 Chronicles 32:8:   With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.

 

Nehemiah: 8:10:  …For the joy of the Lord is your strength.

 

Psalm 1:1-3:  Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Psalm 5:11-12: But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.

 

Psalm 9:9-10: The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.

And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.

 

Psalm 16:8-11: I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

 

Psalm 18:2: The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

 

Psalm 22:19: But be not thou far from me, O Lord: O my strength, haste thee to help me.

 

Psalm 23: The whole Psalm.

 

Psalm 27:1: The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

 

Psalm 28:7-8: The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. The Lord is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed.

 

Psalm 30:2: O Lord my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me.

 

Psalm 30:5: …weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.

 

Psalm 31:7:  I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities.

 

Psalm 31:24:  Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.

 

Psalm 32:7-8: Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah. I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

 

 

 

 

 

Psalm 33:20-22:  Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name. Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.

 

Psalm 34:15: The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry.

 

Psalm 34:18-19: The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.

 

Psalms 37:3: Trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) in the Lord and do good; so shall you dwell in the land and feed surely on His faithfulness, and truly you shall be fed. (TAB)

Psalm 37:23-24: The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.

 

Psalm 37:39: But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble.

 

Psalm 42:11: Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

 

Psalm 46:1-3: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

 

Psalm 55:16-17: As for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.

 

Psalm 55:22:  Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.

 

Psalm 57:1-2:  Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.  I will cry unto God most high; unto God that performeth all things for me.

 

Psalm 71:20: Thou, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth.

 

Psalm 73:26: My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

 

 

Psalm 84:5-7: Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them.

Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools. They go from strength to strength,

 

Psalm 91:  See  the extended devotional study of Psalm 91 available free at http://www.harvestime.org

 

Psalm 103:1-5:  Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

 

Psalm 107:19-22: Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses. He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.

 

Psalm 112:7: He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.

 

Psalm 118:5-6:  I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, and set me in a large place. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?

 

Psalm 119:50:  This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.

 

Psalm 119:67-68:  Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word.

Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes.

 

Psalm 119:76-77: Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant. Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight.

 

Psalm 119:50: This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.

 

Psalm 120:1: In my distress I cried unto the Lord, and he heard me.

 

Psalm 121:  Whole chapter.

 

Psalm 138:3: In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul.

 

 

 

 

Psalm 138:7-8: Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me. The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.

 

Psalm 139:7-18:  Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?

If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.

Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.

 

Psalm 147:3: He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.

 

Proverbs 1:33: First pay attention to me, and then relax.

Now you can take it easy — you’re in good hands.  (MSG)

 

Proverbs 3:5-6:  Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

 

Proverbs 8:17: I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

 

Proverbs 14:26:  In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

 

Proverbs 17:22:   A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

 

Proverbs 18:10: The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

 

Proverbs 21:31: 1 Do your best, prepare for the worst–then trust God to bring victory. (MSG)

Isaiah 12:2: Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

 

Isaiah 25:4: For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

 

Isaiah 26:3-4: Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.

 

Isaiah 30:19: …He will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee.

 

Isaiah 30:21: And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

 

Isaiah 35:4: Tell fearful souls,

Courage! Take heart!

God is here, right here,

on his way to put things right

And redress all wrongs.

He’s on his way! He’ll save you! (MSG)

 

Isaiah 40:29-31: He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

 

Isaiah 41:10: Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

 

Isaiah 41:13: For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

 

Isaiah 43:1-2:  …Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

 

Isaiah 46:4:  And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.

 

Isaiah 49:15-16: Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Isaiah 51:11-15:  Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away. I, even I, am he that comforteth you: who art thou, that thou shouldest be afraid of a man that shall die, and of the son of man which shall be made as grass;

And forgettest the Lord thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth; and hast feared continually every day because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? and where is the fury of the oppressor? The captive exile hasteneth that he may be loosed, and that he should not die in the pit, nor that his bread should fail. But I am the Lord thy God, that divided the sea, whose waves roared: The Lord of hosts is his name.

 

Isaiah 53:5: But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

 

Isaiah 58:8: Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward.

 

Isaiah 61:1:  The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;

 

Jeremiah 29:11:   For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

 

Jeremiah 32:17:  Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:

 

Habakkuk 3:17-19:  Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.

 

Malachi 4:2: But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Testament References

 

Matthew 5:4: Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

 

Matthew 6:34: Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes. (MSG)

 

Matthew 7:7-8:  Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

 

Matthew 8:17:  That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.

 

Matthew 10:29-31:  Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

 

Matthew 11:28-30: Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

 

Matthew 16:24-25: Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self.

(MSG)

 

Matthew 18:19-21:  Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

 

Mark 10:27: And Jesus looking upon them saith, “With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.”

 

Mark 11:24:  Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.

 

John 10:10:  The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

 

John 14:1-3:   Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

 

John 14:13-14: And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.  If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

 

John 14:16-18: And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

 

John 14:27: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

 

John 15:7: If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

 

John 16:24: Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.

 

Romans 5:3-5: …And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

 

Romans 8:1: There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

 

Romans 8:11: But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

 

Romans 8:25-28: Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Romans 8:38-39:  For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

1 Corinthians 2:9: But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

 

1 Corinthians 15:57-58: But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

 

2 Corinthians 1:3-5: Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

 

2 Corinthians 4:16:  For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory: While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

 

2 Corinthians 6:18:  And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

 

2 Corinthians 7:9-10: You let the distress bring you to God, not drive you from him. The result was all gain, no loss.  Distress that drives us to God does that. It turns us around. It gets us back in the way of salvation. We never regret that kind of pain. But those who let distress drive them away from God are full of regrets, end up on a deathbed of regrets. (MSG)

 

2 Corinthians 12:9-10: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

 

Ephesians 3:20:  God can do anything, you know–far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.  (MSG)

 

Ephesians 6:10: Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

 

Philippians 1:6:  Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

 

Philippians 4:6-7: Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

 

Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

 

Philippians 4:19: But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

 

Hebrews 2:14-15: Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

 

Hebrews 4:15-16: For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

 

Hebrews 11:1: Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

 

Hebrews 13:5:  …for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

 

2 Timothy 1:7:  For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

 

James 1:2-6 : My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.  If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

 

James 5:14-16:  Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

 

1 Peter 5:7:  Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

 

Jude 1:24-25: Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

 

Revelation 21:4: God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Choosing a Care Facility

Choosing a Care Facility

by | Aug 1, 2018 | articles, Uncategorized

A care facility is needed when a person can no longer care for themselves and/or the caregiver can no longer provide the level of care required. Care facilities may include assisted living, a skilled nursing home, or a dementia care unit. Here is a checklist to help evaluate care facilities.

-Cost. Check the costs and determine what is covered by private insurance or public health programs. You must select a facility that is certified by these programs if you are to receive benefits.

-Location. Choose a facility that is close to those who will visit the patient often and/or are responsible for their care.

-Needs. Find a facility that meets special needs if the patient needs care for other medical conditions.

-References. Friends, relatives, local clergy, senior groups, social workers, and the local Alzheimer’s Association are helpful in finding and evaluating facilities.

-Licensing. Check the professional licensing of the facility.

-Rating. Some are rated on the Internet, others with governmental agencies.

-Personal visit. This is most important.
-Ask to see the entire facility.
-Note how residents interact with the staff.
-Visit at different times of the day and different days of the week, including meal times.
-Ask to see a menu.
-Are snacks available between meals?
-Do they do personal laundry for residents? Is this an additional cost?
-Ask about room availability.
-Are families encouraged to be involved in a person’s care?
-Is the staff trained in dementia care?
-What training does the staff receive?
-Is medical aid available at all times, i.e., doctors and nurses on the premises?
-What is the ratio of patients to staff?
-What activities are offered?
-Is transportation provided for medical appointment and/or shopping for personal items?
-Are physical, occupational, and speech therapies offered?
-Are religious services available?
-Are holiday celebrations observed?
-Is the facility free of unpleasant odors?
-Are areas safe, secure, and monitored?
-Is the facility easy to navigate?
-What is the condition of resident rooms?
-What is the condition of the common rooms: Reception, dining room, activity rooms?
-Can residents bring familiar items with them, i.e., photos, blankets, books etc.
-What is the noise level?
-Are pets or visits by pets allowed?
-As the person’s needs change, what care is available? For example, a person may start with assisted living and later need a memory care unit.
-Do they provide an escort to the emergency room if a visit is required?
-Do they have end-of-life services such as Hospice care?