LifeBridge Health Recognizes the Importance of Family Caregivers

When we were young, our parents read us our favorite stories, bandaged our scraped knees and cheered us on at soccer games. As we got older, they were there again for us when we needed a few extra bucks or the keys to the car.

The story, however, doesn’t always end the way we would like. As we grow older, so do our parents. They can slow down, become physically frail, and appear mentally confused. Over the course of time, these strong individuals may need our help with even the simplest tasks of daily living.

According to the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA), more than 65 million Americans take care of elderly loved ones. That’s why November has been designated National Family Caregivers Month, a time to thank, support and educate caregivers. These unsung heroes can be friends, neighbors or family members. The NFCA also provides tips and how-to guides.

When those caregivers need help, adult day care is a great way to keep elderly loved ones at home for as long as possible. It allows the elderly to spend time in a stimulating, safe place during the day while giving caregivers time to run errands or just relax.

Adult Day Services at Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital in Baltimore is designed for elders with special medical needs such as diabetes, hypertension and post-stroke disabilities, and/or those with mental health problems such as dementia, confusion and Alzheimer's disease.

At Levindale, we strive to be an extension of your home environment with caring and personalized treatment because your loved one receives needed nursing, medical and social care.

Services for participants include:
-Door to door transportation
-Medical professionals on site for physical and cognitive challenges
-Escort services to doctors’ appointments
-Diverse activity programs and trips
-Delicious, nutritious meals
-Dignified support and assistance

Services for caregivers includes:
-Time to spend with other family members
-The chance to take care of other responsibilities
-Support and education services
-Piece of mind

For more information, call Levindale’s Adult Day Services at 410-601-2360.
-Helene King

Levindale Wins Transportation Award

As a recognition of its services to seniors in the community, Levindale has won a Beverly Foundation Senior Transportation Service Award (STAR).

The Beverly Foundation provides research, education, and assistance to encourage and facilitate mobility and transportation for older adults. Almost 400 STAR applications were received this year, and were reviewed by professionals from across the country. The Trustee Commendation Award won by Levindale means $5,000 for enhanced services.

"The money will be specifically used for training drivers," says Gretchen Barnes, LifeBridge Health manager of transportation. "Many of our clients have Alzheimer's or dementia, and there are new techniques for drivers in handling potential situations."

In June, there were 2,273 passengers picked up and brought to Levindale or Adult Day Services in Pikesville. LifeBride Health's Adult Day Services are designed for physically frail individuals with special medical needs such as diabetes, hypertension and post-stroke disabilities, and those with mental health problems such as dementia, confusion and Alzheimer's disease.

To learn more, call 410-601-WELL (9355).