Community Paramedicine Programs Keep Vulnerable Older Patients Out Of ERs
The hospital can be a dangerous place for older patients, not to mention costly. But programs cropping up across the country are providing both emergency and non-emergency care to them in the comfort and safety of their own homes.
The New York Times:
Going To The Emergency Room Without Leaving The Living Room
When Mrs. Vitale falls or seems lethargic or short of breath, her aides no longer call 911. They dial the House Calls service at Northwell Health, the system that includes Long Island Jewish Medical Center and that dispatches what it calls community paramedics. They often arrive in an S.U.V. instead of an ambulance. And with 40 hours of training in addition to the usual paramedic curriculum, they can treat most of Mrs. Vitale’s problems on the spot instead of bustling her away. (Span, 11/4)
In other news —
St. Louis Post Dispatch:
Hospitals Help Seniors Deal With Depression, Transitions, Health Issues
For seniors, adjusting to a different stage in life can be a difficult time.Some are transitioning to a nursing home from their lifelong home. Or, they may have retired recently or they may be facing an illness that’s causing depression. There is an outpatient program where seniors can seek help. Many times, “they didn’t know what they were dealing with was treatable or had a name,” said Kathleen Edwards, a counselor for Christian Hospital’s Center for Senior Renewal. The program is designed to help seniors develop coping skills for their anxiety, depression and trouble adjusting to retirement. (Liss, 11/6)
St. Louis Post Dispatch:
Want A Better Chance To Stay Out Of A Nursing Home? Modify Your Home
Home modifications support aging in place, according to Susan Stark, an assistant professor of occupational therapy at Washington University, and colleagues who prepared a research paper that will be published soon. Things like bathtub transfer benches, lower steps, grab bars, handrails, widened doorways, ramps and toilet risers help people stay safe and independent in their daily activities. While many people would benefit from the upgrades, few actually have them. They aren’t covered as part of health care in the U.S. (Bogan, 11/6)
