LV Chapter of the DCWA Blog

Future of LVDCWA

2010-06-29T13:39:00.001-04:00

This may be the last post on this blog.

As you may know, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging has decided to discontinue leadership of the Lehigh Valley Direct Care Workers initiative, including maintenance of this blog.

This is a decision based on practicality and focus rather than budget. United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and I still believe in the value of supporting the retention and recruitment of Direct Care Workers. In fact, the recently developed United Way strategic plan framework reaffirms the need for supportive services to help older adults remain in their homes, but seeks to increase actual services in other strategies.

As you may know, United Way stepped in to financially support LVDCWA after the Better Jobs Better Care demonstration grant ended, nearly two years ago, at a cost of nearly $40,000 each year for the past two years. We tried a number of strategies to make the project successful, including one-on-one discussions with local managers, this blog, conferences and speakers at the monthly meetings.

Despite our efforts, we were unable to secure large numbers of members and attendees, making the project costs per person very expensive (over $1,000 per person) and our return on investment very low.

We are currently in the process of informing current members about the decision. Some members have expressed a desire to maintain the association on their own. At the current time, Terry Rives is collecting a list of interested parties. If you are interested in participating in the Lehigh Valley Direct Care Workers Association moving forward, please contact Terry at terryrives@gmail.com.

Poem By A Direct Care Worker

2010-02-08T10:42:00.000-05:00

The Direct Care News featured this poem by a Direct Care Worker:

In Social Awareness Sophie's asked,

If you could change any part of yourself

what would it be? and she thinks very carefully...

(Click here to read full poem)

Two Studies Released

2010-01-20T09:39:00.000-05:00

MetLife Mature Market Institute released its 2009 "Survey of Nursing Home, Assisted Living, Adult Day Services and Home Care Costs" and its “Long-Term Care IQ: Removing Myths, Reinforcing Realities” report. According to the press release, the survey indicates the public is not knowledgeable about long term care and many misconceptions endure.
This survey of nursing homes, conducted in conjunction with LifePlans, Inc., contains daily private-pay rates for private and semi-private rooms in licensed nursing homes, monthly base rates for assisted living communities, hourly rates for home health aides from licensed agencies and agency-provided homemaker companion services, and daily rates for adult day services across the United States.

HeartWork!

2010-01-15T09:53:00.002-05:00

Physical Therapist Wanted!!!

2009-11-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

Local home health care agency is seeking a physical therapist for the office. Position would require travel to clients' homes for therapy. Pay would be negotiated upon interview. Currently the position would only be part time with the potential to increase to full time with the increase in client base. This would be a contracted position.

Please call or email Rhonda Young for more information at:

RYoung@humantouchhealth.com
(484)664-2940

Accepting Nominations for Direct Care Worker of the Year

2009-11-18T14:30:00.000-05:00

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging is currently accepting nominations for the Direct Care Worker of the Year Award. We thank you for participating in this award which will recognize the outstanding work of home care aides throughout the Commonwealth. Please contact Rocco Claroni at 717-772-2932 or rclaroni@state.pa.us if you have any questions.

Please email Sue at suen@unitedwayglv.org to get more information on nominating one of your workers!

Voice Institute Class Sums Up Experience in One Word

2009-10-29T16:58:00.001-04:00

The Voices Institute NLP Class of 2009 summed up their Voices Institute experiences in one word. Read the links below to see how each of the members answered:

BELIEF

Connie Kreider's word was BELIEF. Click here to read why and comment.

TEAMWORK

D. Alex Chuang's word was TEAMWORK. Click here to read why and comment.

ENLIGHTENING

Pat Downing's word was ENLIGHTENING. Click here to read why and comment.

INCREDIBLE

Tracy Dudzinski's word was INCREDIBLE. Click here to read why and comment.

AWESOME

Brenda Nachtway's word was AWESOME. Click here to read why and comment.

Report on Status of PA Direct Care Workers

2009-10-26T16:22:00.003-04:00

Click here to view the report.

PA Nurse Aide Becomes King

2009-10-20T12:14:00.002-04:00

KASESE, Uganda – For years, Charles Wesley Mumbere worked as a nurse's aide in Maryland and Pennsylvania, caring for the elderly and sick. No one there suspected that he had inherited a royal title in his African homeland when he was just 13.

On Monday, after years of political upheaval and financial struggle, Mumbere, 56, was finally crowned king of his people to the sound of drumbeats and thousands of cheering supporters wearing cloth printed with his portraits.

At a public rally later in the day, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni officially recognized the 300,000-strong Rwenzururu Kingdom. Museveni restored the traditional kingdoms his predecessor banned in 1967, but has been adamant that kings restrict themselves to cultural duties and keep out of politics.

"It is a great moment to know that finally the central government has understood the demands of the Bakonzo people who have been seeking very hard for recognition of their identity," Mumbere told The Associated Press in the whitewashed single-story building that serves as a palace.

Click here for the full story.

Study Finds Home Health Aides Particularly Vulnerable to Labor Law Violations

2009-10-06T15:07:00.001-04:00

Most low-wage workers put in some unpaid overtime, but home health aides are particularly likely not to be paid, according to a new study. “Home health care workers are especially vulnerable to violations, both because of the nature of the job and because they’re not fully covered by the protections that most of us take for granted,” said Annette Bernhardt, the policy co-director of the National Employment Law Project and one of the co-authors of Broken Laws, Unprotected Workers: Violations of Employment and Labor Laws in America’s Cities.

The report is based on a survey of 4,387 workers in low-wage industries in the three largest U.S. cities—Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York City. It found that employment and labor laws are “regularly and systematically violated” in home health care and other low-wage work settings.

Click here to view the full story.

Overview of Alzheimer's Disease

2009-10-01T15:42:00.001-04:00

This free educational program is designed to help caregivers and family members of individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementia cope with the care needs of their impaired loved one. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please contact Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter at 800-272-3900 or 215-561-2919., or visit our web site at www.alz.org/desjsepa

Location:

Sharing the Caring
41 N. Third Street
Easton, PA 18042

Topics:
Overview of Alzheimer’s Diease

Date:

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009,

Time:

5pm-6pm

Speaker : Mrs. Kerry brown

Please call 800-272-3900 or 610-258-6271 to RSVP before October 20th as seating is limited.

Senate Healthcare Bill

2009-09-22T15:53:00.000-04:00

PHI says, "Senate Finance Committee's Healthcare Bill Will Better Prepare Direct-Care Workers to Serve Older and Disabled Americans"

In the Chairman's Mark released September 16, Senator Max Baucus has addressed the health care needs of America's elders and people with disabilities by including provisions aimed at improving training and compensation for direct-care workers -- the nursing assistants, home health aides, and personal assistants who provide millions of Americans with daily hands-on assistance. The Chairman's Mark includes a total of $425 million in funding over five years for two groundbreaking, competitive demonstration grant programs designed to help sustain the health professions workforce."

We applaud Senator Baucus for his commitment to better prepare and support direct care workers," said Steven Dawson, president of PHI, a nonprofit working to strengthen eldercare and disability services in the United States. " With Congressional support, direct-care workers can better provide the quality of care that America's rapidly growing population of elders and people with disabilities desperately needs and deserves."

Read the full PHI Press Release

SarahCare is Hiring!

2009-09-21T15:14:00.001-04:00

SarahCare Adult Day service is seeking In Home Professional part -time employees for in home care & Adult Day care at our center

CNA, Home Health Assistants, minimum one year experience

Car and current license/insurance needed

Call 610-391-1576 ask for Deb or Marlene

Keep Walking the Walk!

2009-09-18T13:09:00.001-04:00

Are you or your clients looking for a way to exercise and stay fit???

The new Aging in Action newsletter has a great story about a U.K. published study outlining the factors that lead to successfully sustaining a physical activity program.

Click here to check it out!

Happy National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week!

2009-09-17T13:44:00.002-04:00

The U.S. Senate voted unanimously to set aside September 14-19, 2009 as National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week, a week to recognize, in the words of Ancor, “the invaluable supports Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide and the difference this workforce makes in the lives of Americans with disabilities.”

The resolution (pdf) creating the recognition week states that, among other things, the Senate “recognizes the dedication and vital role of direct support professionals in enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities of all ages” and “appreciates the contribution of direct support professionals in supporting the needs that reach beyond the capacities of millions of families in the United States.”

Click here to read PHI's full story.

Changing our Mission Statement!

2009-08-24T14:28:00.002-04:00

We recently changed our mission statement to better describe what we do! Here is our new statement:

A professional network providing education and support for individuals working in Long Term Care to promote the retention of direct care workers; facilitate culture change within organizations to person centered care models; and increase access to the latest high-quality, relevant and cost-effective training.

Feel free to leave any suggestions or comments!

TRIAD Breakfast!!!!

2009-08-18T08:54:00.002-04:00

The public is invited to the 7th annual TRIAD breakfast! You do not need to be a member of TRIAD to attend!

Please come out to show your support for our seniors. Dr. Francis Salerno-The Associate Chief of Geriatrics at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Co-Author of the book, “Basic Prevention: A Guide to Healthy Aging” (and the speaker for LVDCWA's last conference!) will be our key note speaker. Learn about Project Lifesaver!

Please RSVP by September 1st. If you would like to be a sponsor, please send your information and payment in by August 31st. Checks should be made out to TRIAD. Payment and give-aways may be mailed or dropped off at:

Arden Courts
Attention: Karen Francis
5151 Hamilton Blvd.
Allentown, PA 18106
***********************************************************************

Lehigh County TRIAD
invites you to attend our
7th Anniversary Breakfast
to be held on
SEPTEMBER 10, 2009
7:30 a.m.- Registration & Buffet Breakfast

Keynote Speaker:
Francis Salerno M.D.
Associate Chief of Geriatrics-Lehigh Valley Hospital
Co-author of the book, “Basic Prevention: A Guide to Healthy Aging”

Program begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. at:
Traditions of Hanover
5300 Northgate Drive
Bethlehem, PA 18017

Seniors $15.00 All Others $20.00
Please R. S.V.P. by September 1, 2009

Name: _______________________________________________

Organization: __________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________

Number attending: __________ Amount Enclosed:______________

I am unable to attend, but would like to contribute _______________

Make checks payable to: TRIAD
Please send to : Karen Francis
Arden Courts
5151 Hamilton Blvd.
Allentown, PA 18106

Message from Brenda!

2009-08-11T09:23:00.001-04:00

Check out this video from Brenda Nachtway, the rep for PA Direct Care Workers Association:

Conference is Full!

2009-07-21T08:53:00.002-04:00

Our July 30th, 2009 conference on Issues on Aging is full to capacity!

But, don't worry -- you can still stop in and experience our mini-trainings on the third Tuesday of every month from 2:00 - 3:30 at the United Way Building on 2200 Avenue A, Third Floor, Bethlehem, PA 18017.

Please call Cori Rolón at 610-807-5742 for more information!

Sandwich Generation

2009-07-16T15:05:00.000-04:00

July is Sandwich Generation Month!

Did you know?

* According to the Pew Research Center just over 1 of every 8 Americans aged 40 to 60 are both raising a child and caring for a parent.

* In addition, between 7 to 10 million adults are caring for their aging parents from a long distance.

* U.S. Census Bureau statistics indicate that the number of older Americans aged 65 or older will double by the year 2030, to over 70 million.

Lehigh Valley area babyboomers (ages 45-65) who are part of the ever growing sandwich generation are invited to attend this celebration and information event. Learn more about services available to you. This event commemorates your dedication, patience and caring for your children and your aging parents. Get resources and information at:

Devon House Assisted Living Facility
1930 Bevin Dr.
Allentown, PA 18103
Friday July 17th

1:00p.m.-2:00p.m.
FREE ICECREAM SANDWICHES

Learn more and celebrate!

Contact Terry L. Weber at
610-821-0821 or gsclehi@ptd.net for event details.

Sponsored by GRISWOLD SPECIAL CARE
Over 100 Offices nationwide
including Lehigh Valley and Lehigh Valley Northeast

Alzheimer's Association Holds Memory Walk Committee Meeting

2009-07-02T12:26:00.002-04:00

The Alzheimer's Association will hold a Memory Walk Commmittee Meeting on Monday, July 13th 3:30 PM at Lehigh Commons!

Where: 1680 Spring Creek RdMacungie, PA 18062-974, (610) 530-8089

Special Guest: Adam Recke and his family! Adam's dad, Sean will talk to our Committee about the Walk and what this local family is facing! We have asked the family to have Adam as our "Honored Guest" at this Year's Memory Walk..... and they have agreed! Adam Recke is a 4th grade student at Farmersville Elementary School in Bethlehem Township. He was diagnosed with Type C Niemann-Pick Disease (Childhood Alzheimer’s)...Adam's nowhere near 65, the age at which the risk of dementia starts to zoom.

Some of you may have never heard of Niemann-Pick Type C, or NPC .....

Did you know that kids with NPC lose their ability to walk, talk or even to remember the name of a favorite stuffed animal??

This incurable disease, which afflicts about 500 children in the USA, has been called the pediatric version of Alzheimer's, a disease that afflicts 4.5 million people — most of them seniors — in the nation today.

Alzheimer's is thought to be caused by abnormal brain deposits, almost identical to the deposits seen in children with NPC, says NPC researcher Steven Walkley of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx. Children who live long enough with NPC also can develop dementia, he says.

"A lot of us think that if we could really understand NPC, maybe it would help us understand Alzheimer's," he says. Consider coming out to find what this family is facing and how the Alzheimer's Association plans to work with them!

If you would like to attend the meeting, please contact Sara Drey 484-951-2330 or sadcelt@aol.com

Local Direct Care Worker Selling Walker Bags

2009-06-30T15:01:00.003-04:00

Carol Hofacker, local direct care worker and attendee at our June conference on empowerment and self-esteem, has a personal business!

She makes personalized denim walker bags with four pockets.

This is a great gift idea!

contact tamar77@ptd.net for pics and prices!

PHI Launches PolicyWorks

2009-06-29T10:39:00.001-04:00

PHI Launches PolicyWorks: A National Strategy Center for the Direct-Care Workforce

PHI announces the launch of PolicyWorks, an online strategy center promoting national and state policy solutions to strengthen the direct-care workforce. PolicyWorks features:

Strategic Areas - Frameworks for understanding the leading policy issues affecting the direct-care workforce
Workforce Facts - An introduction to the demographics, size, and economic impact of the direct-care workforce
Policy Recommendations - Strategic recommendations on the critical issues affecting direct-care workers
Chart Gallery - High quality graphics highlighting key data on the direct-care workforce
Guide to Accessing Federal Recovery Act Funds - Help for those interested in taking advantage of the unprecedented level of public resources now available
Health Reform Resource Center - Resources to help ensure that national health reform works for the direct-care workforce

PolicyWorks is staffed by PHI's national and state policy experts and led by PHI National Policy Director Steve Edelstein.

Direct Support Professional Takes Top Job at Voices Institute

2009-06-18T11:19:00.002-04:00

If you want something done, they say, give it to someone who’s already busy. And if you want someone to run a leadership program for direct care workers, who better than a busy direct care worker?

The Direct Care Alliance recently named Bridget Siljander to the newly created position of Coordinator of the Voices Institute.

A graduate of the Voices Institute National Leadership Program’s first class, Bridget has provided care and supports to elders and people with disabilities for the past 12 years. She has worked in hospitals, group homes, and nursing homes, but most of her work has been in home care. For the past nine years, she was the primary aide for one home care client.

Click on the video to hear Bridget's story

or click here to read the full story on the Direct Care Alliance blog.

Satisfaction Levels IMPROVE in Nursing Homes!

2009-06-13T11:40:00.001-04:00

According to a new report, satisfaction among nursing home consumers and staff has reached a record high.

The 2008 National Survey of Consumer and Workforce Satisfaction in Nursing Homes (pdf), released on May 27, draws on the responses of 223,449 employees; 54,711 residents; and 146,949 family members in 5,075 nursing facilities across the United States.

It shows that 85 percent of consumers and 66 percent of employees give “good” or “excellent” ratings to their nursing homes, with consumers rating their overall satisfaction and employees stating whether they would recommend their facility as a place to work.

Click here to read the full story on PHI's blog

AoA Announces HHS-VA National Partnership to Support Older Americans and Veterans at House Veterans Committee Hearing on Family Caregivers

2009-06-12T11:43:00.003-04:00

***The following is provided for informational purposes only. United Way of the GLV and the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association does not endorse any particular piece of legislation or programs***

On June 4, 2009, Acting Assistant Secretary for Aging Edwin L. Walker testified before the House Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health at a hearing on "Meeting the Needs of Family Caregivers." The hearing presented a unique opportunity for the Committee to gain a better understanding of current efforts that are underway to meet the needs of family caregivers of veterans and begin to identify the gaps in supportive services for family caregivers across the country. At the hearing, Mr. Walker discussed AoA's successful programs provided through AoA's national network of aging and community-based organizations that support older Americans and family caregivers. Among those programs is the National Family Caregiver Support Program which has provided significant support and assistance to families struggling to care for their loved ones for close to ten years. Mr. Walker also took the opportunity to announce the availability of $10 million in funding for an exciting collaboration between the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop a nationwide community-based long-term support program to help older Americans and Veterans of all ages with Disabilities remain in the community. This partnership builds on the similar missions of HHS and the VA with regard to caring for the populations they serve. For more information about this announcement, please visit http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/06/20090604a.html
He also announced the availability of $2.5 million in funding for the new Lifespan Respite Care Program Grants to provide family caregivers with more opportunities to receive much-needed short-term, temporary relief from providing care for their loved ones. These projects will enable states to establish, enhance or expand Lifespan Respite Care systems, including new and planned emergency respite services, training and recruitment of respite workers and volunteers and assist caregivers with gaining access to needed services in their communities. For more information about this funding availability , please visit http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/Press_Room/for_the_press/pr/archive/2009/June/06_04_09.doc
To review the testimony and archived webcast from the June 4 hearing, please visit
http://veterans.house.gov/hearings/hearing.aspx?newsid=412

Arden Courts

2009-06-10T13:55:00.003-04:00

Just a reminder to everyone -- the next support group for caregivers is TONIGHT!

Time: 5:30 pm

Topic: Caregiver stress

Place:
Arden Courts of Allentown
5151 Hamilton Blvd.
Allentown, PA 18106

Contact:
Karen Francis
Marketing Director
610-366-9010 telephone
610-366-9641 fax

National Nursing Assistant Survey and Other Reports

2009-06-09T16:30:00.001-04:00

According to the Direct Care Alliance newsletter, the April issue of The Gerontologist reports on several important studies about direct care workers, starting with the long-anticipated National Nursing Assistant Survey.

A paper about the survey, which is based on data from 2004, says it "represents a major advance in the data available about CNAs in nursing homes and provides a rich resource for evidence-based policy, practice, and applied research initiatives to address the CNA workforce shortage and to improve recruitment and retention efforts." It also includes suggestions about how NNAS data can be used "to inform new policy directions." Read more and comment

Marilyn Daniel's Reward

2009-06-04T09:37:00.003-04:00

The Washington Post had a touching story about a direct care worker and her clients. Click here to read the full story.

"Come Care With Me" Days Influence PA Legislators

2009-06-01T11:52:00.002-04:00

This video created by PHI Healthcare for Healthcare Workers is provided for informational purposes only. United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association does not advocate or lobby for any particular candidates or piece of legislation.

Senior Support Coalition Rally!

2009-05-29T14:57:00.002-04:00

A Senior Support Coalition Rally is planned for June 2nd in the East Rotunda of the Capitol Building, Harrisburg. On this day, HB 1152 will also be considered by both the House Aging and Older Adult Committee as well as the Senate Aging and Youth Committee.

WHEN: Tuesday, June 2, 2009

WHAT TIME: 12:00 Noon

They are asking that people arrive no later than 11:40 a.m. Everyone must go through metal detectors. To speed that process, please minimize mental and jewelry. All change will need to be removed from pockets. Bags and purses will be x-rayed.

WHERE: EAST WING ROTUNDA OF THE CAPITOL (lower level)
Commonwealth Avenue (by the Fountain)

UNLOADING: All Busses should unload at the Commonwealth entrance. This is also the handicapped entrance. Those coming by car can enter through the Orvis Building off Walnut Street. (See attached map)

PARKING: Passenger vehicles should park in on of the area parking garages: Forum Place, Strawberry Square. Busses should park at the City Island Lot.

GATHERING: The Coalition has reserved the tables in the East Wing Rotunda.

DEPARTURE: The program will last one hour. Departure time will depend on your groups arrangements.

Feel free to visit your local legislators either before or after the rally.

TIPS: Remember to wear very comfortable flat shoes. Through out the Capitol building cobble stones make walking a little challenging.

We encourage you to bring signs, posters, and noise makers. However, no sticks or posts are permitted.

Come Care With Me

2009-05-27T08:33:00.002-04:00

Recently, PHI's Health Care for Health Care Workers Initiative sponsored a "Come Care With Me" event, where they paired a PA legislator with a direct care worker in his or her district. The legislator shadowed the worker, observed the importance of long-term care, and learned more about the situations facing direct care workers.

A news crew attended the most recent event with Rep. Mark Longietti, and you can watch the report here:

Culture Change and Disaster Webinars!

2009-05-26T11:09:00.002-04:00

Learn how culture change and person-centered care can transform your community!

Join Matherways for a free webinar on May 28th!

Long-term care (LTC) communities are in a state of transformation. The culture change movement is challenging LTCs to rethink the way they deliver care to their residents.

On Thursday, May 28, you are invited to learn about LEAP, a culture change program designed to reduce nursing staff turnover, improve job satisfaction, reduce health deficiencies and increase resident satisfaction in long-term care communities. This webinar will introduce you to LEAP and answer your questions on how to bring culture change and person-directed care to your community. Click here to register for this free webinar.

Questions?
Contact Cecilia Grefalda at 847-492-7444 or cgrefalda@matherlifeways.com

Discover the importance of a workforce that is effectively prepared for any type of emergency!

Join us for a free webinar on May 29!

Natural and man-made disasters directly impact senior residences and long-term care communities in a variety of ways. Little emphasis has been placed on age-appropriate care for elderly populations during such times.

On Friday, May 29, you are invited to learn about PREPARE, an award winning program designed to equip senior living and long-term care professionals with the core competencies to address the medical and psychosocial consequences and response concerns of senior living and long-term care residents. Click here to register for this free webinar.

Questions?
Contact Theresa Sangram at (847) 492-6790 or tsangram@matherlifeways.com

Article Challenges Human, Economic Challenges of Direct Care Work

2009-05-22T13:14:00.003-04:00

As reported by PHI, the Washington Post Magazine ran a major feature article recently that highlighted the disparity between the rising need for home-care workers and the poor wages and working conditions these jobs usually entail. Its author, Paula Span, referenced figures from PHI Director of Policy Research Dorie Seavey about the low wages paid to workers and the high turnover rates that undermine the quality of care.

“Marilyn Daniel’s Reward” (May 10) weaves the story of 91-year-old Rozzie Laney and her 63-year-old home-care aide Marilyn Daniel around a detailed explanation of the role of home health care workers and the generally poor quality of their jobs. In effect, it offers readers, within the context of a heart-warming story of compassion and care, a primer on the field of home health care and the human and policy-level issues that currently confront it.

Please take a moment to read the full article by clicking here.

Nursing Homes Serving Latinos Provide Poorer Quality of Care

2009-05-21T08:22:00.002-04:00

New research published in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association recently found that nursing homes that serve predominately Latino populations provide poorer quality of care compared to those serving mostly white older adults.

It should be noted that this research is preliminary, because it relies on the rate of bedsores developed at Latino nursing homes which researchers found to be significantly higher. However, this finding alone warrants more systematic examination and should not be discounted.

Click here to read the full story in the Aging in Action Newsletter!

What Does It Mean To Live United?

2009-05-13T08:23:00.004-04:00

As part of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association has been involved in United Way's year long "Live United" campaign.

Some members of the Association came in to the United Way offices to have their picture taken in the famous white t-shirt and talk about the ways that they live united.

Building off that idea, Rich Harwood wrote a blog post about the "10 Ways to Live United". He challenges each of us to think about the 10 ideas and what progress we have made over the past year. Click here to view his post.

Op-Ed in OUR local Morning Call Urges Investment in PA Direct Care Workforce

2009-05-08T08:42:00.002-04:00

There are many organizations working on a national level to bring the needs of the direct care workforce to the forefront. Sometimes, as a local chapter of the Direct Care Worker Association, we may feel disengaged with these movements.

Recently, however, the national blogs began to discuss an April 23rd op-ed that appeared in Allentown’s The Morning Call, right here in the Lehigh Valley!

The op-ed was written by Robert S. Zimmerman. He formerly served as the state’s secretary of health and also its Medicaid director. More recently he was director of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Region 3 Office for the Mid-Atlantic States.

In the article, Zimmerman asks state leaders to take advantage of the infusion of $4 billion in additional Medicaid funding from the federal stimulus by “mak[ing] a significant investment in an important but under-recognized industry – publicly-funded home and community-based services (HCBS)” Read the full article by clicking here.

Manual for Nursing Homes Going Through Culture Change

2009-05-05T12:35:00.002-04:00

For more than 20 years, America’s nursing homes have struggled to live up to the goals of the “culture change” movement, which would transform nursing homes from clinical institutions into home-like settings in accordance with person-centered federal standards established in the 1980s.

A new manual from the Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes campaign created with support from the Commonwealth Fund seeks to address this issue by offering nursing home staff an evidence-based guide to preparing, implementing, and sustaining clinical and cultural changes.

Read the full story on the PHI blog by clicking here.

Part-Time Position at the Third Street Alliance!

2009-04-30T16:20:00.001-04:00

Part –Time Program Aide

Third Street Alliance Sharing the Caring Adult day Services Center is seeking someone energetic, caring, and some computer skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum 18 years of age, high school diploma or equivalency, ability to participate in music, art, and recreational activities, ability to relate well with others, ability to work as a member of a team, and the ability to lift a minimum of 30 pounds. Experience with geriatric population preferred.

Ability to work as a team member and with people of diverse backgrounds, good communication skills, and ability to work with and maintain confidential information. Criminal background check, biannual physical and annual training required

RESPONSIBILITIES:

To perform assigned direct care group or individual duties as directed by the Nurse or Activity Coordinator such as personal care, assisting with transferring, craft, etc.

Please contact Mahpareh Fakhraie, Director of Sharing the Caring

Phone: 610-258-6271
Fax: 610-258-2112
Mfakhraie@thirdstreetalliance.org

Free Health Fair!

2009-04-29T14:31:00.002-04:00

When?
Saturday, May 2nd, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where?
Sacred Heart Senior Living
4851 Saucon Creek Road
Center Valley, PA

Free Health Screenings!
Vision, Balance, Cholesterol, Blood Pressure & Blood Sugar, Dental, Audiology, Diabetic Footwear and more.

Information on stress management, anxiety, depression, smoking cessation, sleep apnea, insurance, prescription drugs and medical equipment. Veterans Affairs and State Representatives available.

Special appearance by Iron Pigs Mascot "Ferrous"

Raffle tickets to upcoming Iron Pigs Games!

Virtual Dementia Tour

2009-04-28T09:52:00.002-04:00

Virtual Dementia Tour:
Changing the
Perception of Aging
Free Dementia Workshop
Especially for Caregivers and Healthcare Professionals
Credits received: 1 CEU

Arden Courts and Manorcare of Allentown invites you to take an emotional journey to experience the realities of life for a person living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

People say that you don’t know what life is like until you walk a mile in their shoes.
After experiencing this sensory training, you will understand the overwhelming effects of the aging process when combined with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. This life-changing workshop can also help you make better care-giving and health care decisions by knowing what your patient may be coping with on a daily basis.

Tuesday, April 28th 2009
Beginning at 11:00AM
At Arden Courts Alzheimer’s Assisted Living
5151 Hamilton Blvd..
Allentown, PA 18106
366mktg@hcr-manorcare.com
A time slot must be reserved for the tour/testing, please call Karen Francis for more information or questions.

Join us for this special enlightening workshop. Call today as space is limited for this event. Appointments will be booked every ½ hour beginning at 10:00AM. Light refreshments will be served.

Arden Courts
Alzheimer’s Assisted Living
5151 Hamilton Blvd.
Allentown, PA 18106
(610)-366-9010

PHI Releases Survey for HealthCare Workers

2009-04-24T11:43:00.001-04:00

What Does "Affordable" Coverage Mean to You?

As Congress addresses national health reform, PHI's HealthCare for Health Professional division is collecting research and would like YOUR definition of what affordable means - premiums, co-payments, deductible, and share of family income - however you define it.

Take the time to tell them what YOU think by taking this short survey NOW.

Nursing's Hidden Blessings!

2009-04-22T12:54:00.002-04:00

One in five Americans is currently taking care of another adult, voluntarily tending to an ill or frail loved one. And as the Baby-Boomer generation ages, that obligation is likely to increase. The burden takes a serious toll on caregivers, leading to poorer health and even an increased risk of death.

But what is it that actually takes the toll? Is it the physical wear-and-tear of feeding and bathing a needy relative? Is it simply that caregivers have too much work and too little time and energy? Or is it the emotional costs of watching a loved one deteriorate, or the anticipation of loss? Or all of this rolled together?

Click here to read the full story about a recently released study discussed on Wray Herbert's We're Only Human blog.

Alzheimer's -- Past and Future!

2009-04-21T10:35:00.005-04:00

The Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association was very pleased to hold an Alzheimer's conference on April 17th 2009!

Judy Matthewson, Executive Director of the Third Street Alliance, welcomes us to her beautiful building:

Karen Francis, Director of Marketing for Arden Courts and representative of the Alzheimer's Association, welcomes the group and discusses her experiences.

Karen reviews the different types of dementia that workers may encounter:

If you missed our wonderful conference, there are still more opportunities for you to get Alzheimer's training in the Valley! The Alzheimer's Association will be sponsoring another event at the Third Street Alliance. Here are the details:

What? Family Caregiver Training Workshop In Lehigh Valley

Where?

Sharing the caring
41 North Third Street
Easton, PA 18042

When?
Saturday May 16th, 2009
8:30am -4pm

How do I sign up?

Skilled, experienced professionals will conduct the sessions.
Pre-Registration is required, as space is limited
Call the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter
RSVP before May 8th @ 800-272-3900 or 610-258-6271
(24/7) to reserve your seat today!
Visit our web site at: www.alz.org/desjsepa.org

PHI Testifies Before Senate Aging Committee

2009-04-08T12:01:00.000-04:00

Support Direct Care Workers and Save Taxpayer Dollars!

2009-04-07T13:33:00.003-04:00

Terry Lynch wrote a wonderful article about a presentation he made in the United Kingdom:

"I just gave a keynote speech at the annual conference of an organization that’s influencing the future of long-term care in the United Kingdom. It’s called In Control, and its mission is to enable people using long-term care services to determine what services they need and to control how they are provided. This approach to service provision is known, both there and in the United States, as Self-Directed Support (SDS)."

Read the rest of Terry's story on the Direct Care Alliance blog by clicking here.

Sacred Heart New Building Dedication!

2009-04-03T09:32:00.002-04:00

Sacred Heart Senior Living by Saucon Creek will be holding a Dedication and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for their new building," The Wedgewood ", at Sacred Heart Senior Living by Saucon Creek ( just off Rte. 378)!

The event will be held on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8TH AT 2PM... followed by Refreshments !! and Tours until 5pm.

You can RSVP by calling 610-814-2700 or emailing Sue May at alfpch@hotmail.com

Arden Courts Holds Car Wash To Raise Money For Alzheimer's Association!

2009-04-02T15:52:00.001-04:00

CAR WASH!

Where?
Arden Courts
5151 Hamilton Blvd.
Allentown, PA
610-366-9010

When?
May 1st
10am - 4pm

Why?
To benefit the Alzheimer’s Association!
All proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association Berks/Lehigh Memory Walk 2009

Chocolate and Wine Event!

2009-03-31T08:17:00.002-04:00

YOU ARE INVITED

Special Open House at Hess Healthcare Services in Bethlehem
Chocolate & Wine Extravaganza

Alzheimer's Disease: Home Safety Information

Our VERY Special Guest will be:
Kellie Butsack
Alzheimer’s Association Berks Branch Coordinator
This is a FREE event that is open to the Public!
Making the Home Environment Safe
Innovative ideas for people to stay safely in their homes.

Hess Healthcare Services
643 E. Broad St.
Bethlehem, PA. 18018
610-867-2733

Wednesday, April 29, 2009
4:00PM– 7:00PM

Guests will have the unique experience of tasting chocolate and wine pairings!!
Not only is chocolate and red wine a tantalizing combin ation for its sensational taste, but research shows these foods also contain antioxidants which may be good for your health.

BAVTS Willing To Pay Conference Fees For Local Workers!

2009-03-30T08:42:00.002-04:00

ANNOUNCEMENT:

Bethlehem AVTS Continuing Education Department is offering to pay conference registration fees for up to six local direct care workers to attend the Pennsylvania Direct Care Worker Association 2009 Conference to be held in Harrisburg on May 18, 2009. Applicants must be presently employed as a direct care worker (CNA, Home Health Aide, Personal Care Aide, Adult Day Care Staff, etc.) in Northampton or Lehigh County and must provide a recommendation and permission to attend the conference from his/her employer. Persons interested in applying for the conference sponsorship can do so through the school by completing an application form which includes the following information:

Full name, address, phone number

Place of employment, address (include county), phone number

Statement of recommendation and permission to attend conference from supervisor

Education or training completed that is related to your position as a direct care worker

Memberships in career-related organizations

Bethlehem AVTS agrees to pay conference registration fees only (up to $60 per person), and will not be responsible for transportation of awardees to and from the event. Application forms should be sent to Bethlehem AVTS via mail, fax or email or delivered directly to the office during hours of operation.Conference AwardsContinuing Education Department

Bethlehem AVTS

3300 Chester Avenue

Bethlehem, PA 18020

PHONE: 610.866.8013, ext. 111

FAX: 610.866.5978

EMAIL: kleins@bavts.org

OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

BAVTS Willing To Pay Conference Fees For Local Workers!

2009-03-30T08:42:00.000-04:00

ANNOUNCEMENT:

Bethlehem AVTS Continuing Education Department is offering to pay conference registration fees for up to six local direct care workers to attend the Pennsylvania Direct Care Worker Association 2009 Conference to be held in Harrisburg on May 18, 2009. Applicants must be presently employed as a direct care worker (CNA, Home Health Aide, Personal Care Aide, Adult Day Care Staff, etc.) in Northampton or Lehigh County and must provide a recommendation and permission to attend the conference from his/her employer. Persons interested in applying for the conference sponsorship can do so through the school by completing an application form which includes the following information:

Full name, address, phone number
Place of employment, address (include county), phone number
Statement of recommendation and permission to attend conference from supervisor
Education or training completed that is related to your position as a direct care worker
Memberships in career-related organizations

Bethlehem AVTS agrees to pay conference registration fees only (up to $60 per person), and will not be responsible for transportation of awardees to and from the event. Application forms should be sent to Bethlehem AVTS via mail, fax or email or delivered directly to the office during hours of operation.Conference AwardsContinuing Education Department
Bethlehem AVTS
3300 Chester Avenue
Bethlehem, PA 18020
PHONE: 610.866.8013, ext. 111
FAX: 610.866.5978
EMAIL: kleins@bavts.org
OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Direct Care Worker Speaks About Her Experiences!

2009-03-19T15:22:00.001-04:00

Tracy Dudzinski, a direct care worker, was recently asked by the Direct Care Alliance to go to Washington, D.C. to tell the people at an Institute of Medicine symposium what it’s like to be a direct care worker. Click on the picture below to hear her statement.

Low Cost Alzheimer's Conference -- 3 CEUs!

2009-03-13T15:14:00.001-04:00

The NEXT CONFERENCE IS APRIL 17th!

When? Friday, April 17th, 8:00 am to noon

Who? Any direct care worker or manager working in the Greater Lehigh Valley may attend.

Where?
Gym
Third Street Alliance
41 North Third Street
Easton, PA 18042

How much? Free for members that register before April 10th. $5 for non-members and late registrations.

What? The Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association, Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging, the Workforce Investment Board and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley understand how quickly new strategies and ideas emerge in Alzheimer’s care. We are offering this low‐cost option to get the training you need!

The training will be provided by Karen Francis of Arden Courts. Karen has over 15 years of Alzheimer’s experience and several years of experience working as director of community relations and marketing director for various Assisted Living/Dementia Care facilities in the Lehigh Valley. Karen serves on a number of Alzheimer’s/Aging committees, including the Alzheimer’s Association, Lehigh Valley Aging in Place Coalition, the Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging’s Public Policy subcommittee, the Lehigh Valley Direct Care Worker Association, the American Cancer Society and the ACS Cancer Action Network for District 15. In addition, she runs the Early Stage Memory Loss Dual Group for Sacred Heart Hospital, and the monthly dementia support groups at Sacred Heart and Arden Courts.

Karen will cover a variety of Alzheimer’s topics:
* Introduction and Overview of Alzheimer’s
* Disease and Related Dementias
* Tools for Diagnosis
* Behaviors and Communications
* Activities for Daily Living

This course is pending approval for 3 CEU credits for social workers, RNs and Administrators.

How do I sign up? Contact Cori Rolón at corir@unitedwayglv.org or 610-807-5742.

Spanish/English Bi-lingual Activity Assistant Needed!

2009-03-12T15:10:00.000-04:00

Part Time professional Activity Assistant needed for west Allentown Adult Day Service. Must have a drivers license for assistance on transporting clients on our van. Minimum 1 year eldercare experience, Bi-lingual a plus

Hours 10:30-6pm Monday-Friday, Saturdays optional. Rate $9.00 per hour
SarahCare Adult Day
610-391-1576 call between 8-10am only

Last Days to Register for the $5 Conference on Surviving the Economic Crises!

2009-03-09T08:35:00.004-04:00

The Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association, Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging, the Workforce Investment Board and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley understand how the economic crunch is affecting your wallet. When you are stressed with money problems, your work can be affected.

We proudly offer you this opportunity to learn how to stretch your paycheck in these trying times.

When? Friday, March 13th, 8:00 am to noon

Where?
Moyer Hall
Phoebe Home
1925 Turner Street
Allentown, PA 18104

How much? $5

What? The training will be provided by Denise Continenza from Penn State Cooperative Extension. Denise Continenza is the Family Living Educator with the Penn State Cooperative Extension in Lehigh County. She conducts community education programs on topics related to families across the life cycle such as parenting, family financial management, youth resiliency, and life skills. She is also a panelist with Help for Families, the weekly parenting column appearing in the Morning Call. Denise has been an extension educator since August, 2001. Denise holds a B.A. in sociology from East Stroudsburg University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Youth and Family Education through Penn State. Denise is an avid runner, and she lives in Whitehall, PA with her husband and three children. Denise will provide practical ways to make your money go farther this year.

She will discuss: Making Decisions about Money· Developing a Budget· Credit and Debt· Recordkeeping· Consumer Protection/Credit Reports

How do I sign up? Call Cori Rolón today at (610) 807-5742 or email her at
corir@unitedwayglv.org

PCA Testifies Before Minnesota Health and Human Services Committee

2009-03-05T11:42:00.001-05:00

Bridget Siljander, the president of the Direct Support Professional Association of Minnesota and one of the DCA’s Direct Care Worker Specialists, recently testified before the Minnesota Health and Human Services Committee. Although she was speaking about policies in a different state, many of her experiences as a Personal Care Assistant may seem familiar to our local Direct Care Workers.

State AND Local Conference

2009-03-02T16:49:00.004-05:00

There are several conference opportunities coming up!

First, we will be holding a conference on March 13th in Allentown-- LESS THAN TWO WEEKS AWAY on strategies for surviving the economic crunch. The cost of the conference is only $5 and that includes breakfast AND lunch AND a goodie bag with a $10 book entitled, "Your Money or Your Life". Click here to read more details and sign up today.

Secondly, the PA State Direct Care Workers Association is holding their annual conference in May in Harrisburg:

DIRECT CARE WORKERS
Spring Into Action For A Better Tomorrow

Pa. Direct Care Workers Association
5th Annual Conference
Monday, May 18th, 2009 in Harrisburg Pa

Email brendanachtway@gmail.com or call (570)412-1447 with your questions about the state conference.

Email corirolon@unitedwayglv.org or call (610) 807-5742 with your questions about the local conference.

Reduced Cost For Lifeline Service for NAZARETH Residents!

2009-02-26T15:52:00.000-05:00

The Wagner Family Foundation recently awarded the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley grant funding to be utilized with their Lifeline Personal Response program. As a result, American Red Cross will be able to subsidize the cost of the Lifeline service for a number of residents who reside in the Nazareth area.

Lifeline, the #1 medical alert service, has helped over 6 million seniors and their families. It is an easy to use service designed to reduce the risk of living alone. In the event of a fall or emergency, help is available at the push of a button. The appropriate help is sent, resulting in reduced hospitalization, lower medical costs, shorter recovery times, and greater independence for the user.

The cost of the Lifeline service is $40.00 per month. Individuals would be responsible for paying $30.75 per month, plus a one-time shipping and handling fee of $12.95. The Wagner Family Foundation grant funding would cover their balance of $10.00. This reduced fee is available for a maximum of 12 months.

If you know someone living in Nazareth, please pass on this information. To sign up for the program or for more information, please contact Laura Sheehan at the American Red Cross -- 610-865-4400.

Direct Care Alliance

2009-02-24T11:21:00.002-05:00

Have you checked out the Direct Care Alliance webpage? Do you know about the Direct Care Alliance, a national Direct Care Worker Association?

If you haven't already checked out the new Direct Care Alliance website, you might want to take a look this week. They have revamped it to offer more information and inspiration, including separate landing pages to help direct care workers, consumers, employers, and members of worker associations and coalitions (hey -- that is us!) find what they're looking for.

Other features include:

News and Opinions. Read blog posts by our direct care worker specialists, Executive Director Leonila Vega, and others -- and join the online conversation by leaving a comment yourself.
Issues. This section outlines challenges facing direct care workers and links to ways you can learn more about the issue, advocate for improvements, or find out about other groups working for change;
Resources. Publications, organizations, and online services that match direct care workers with clients; and
Videos. Videos shot at the DCA's 2007 conference, at last year's open house, and at other DCA events are salted throughout the site, so you can hear what direct care workers, employers, consumers, funders and others are saying about the DCA and its mission.
Who We Are. Meet our staff, board, and direct care worker specialists or read about our beliefs and principles. This section also includes a definition of direct care work from our direct care worker specialists.

Over the next few months, they will be adding interactive features to help build their movement and give advocates more ways to communicate with each other online, making the website a powerful tool for grassroots advocacy and community building!

Local FREE Conference on Handling Paychecks for Direct Care Workers!

2009-02-20T12:41:00.004-05:00

The Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association, Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging, the Workforce Investment Board and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley understand how the economic crunch is affecting your wallet. When you are stressed with money problems, your work can be affected. We proudly offer you this
opportunity to learn how to stretch your paycheck in these trying times.

When? Friday, March 13th, 8:00 am to noon

Where?
Moyer Hall
Phoebe Home
1925 Turner Street
Allentown, PA 18104

How much? Free for members that register before March 6th. $5 for non-members and late registrations.

What?
The training will be provided by Denise Continenza from Penn State Cooperative Extension. Denise Continenza is the Family Living Educator with the Penn State Cooperative Extension in Lehigh County. She conducts community education programs on topics related to families across the life cycle such as parenting, family financial management, youth resiliency, and life skills. She is also a panelist with Help for Families, the weekly parenting column appearing in the Morning Call. Denise has been an extension educator since August, 2001. Denise holds a B.A. in sociology from East Stroudsburg University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Youth and Family Education through Penn State. Denise is an avid runner, and she lives in Whitehall, PA with her husband and three children.

Denise will provide practical ways to make your money go farther this year. She will discuss:
· Making Decisions about Money
· Developing a Budget
· Credit and Debt
· Recordkeeping
· Consumer Protection/Credit Reports

How do I sign up?
Simply fill out the following information and send or email to:

Cori Rolón
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley
2200 Avenue A
Third Floor
Bethlehem, PA 18017-2189
corir@unitedwayglv.org
(610) 807-5742

Registration Form:
Name: __________________________________________
Company:_______________________________________
Street Address:__________________________________
City______________________________
State: _________ Zip: _____________
Phone #:_________________________
Email: ____________________________
Social Security #: (required by the grant)
__________________________________

Please make all checks payable to:
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley

Town Hall Meeting on Electric Rates!

2009-02-19T13:56:00.001-05:00

Experts from AARP and the PA Consumer Advocate's office will be on hand to tell you about potential changes that could result in dramatic increases in your electric bill over the next two years.

Intended Audience: General Public
Reservation Required: Yes
Cost: Free
Contact: John Vargo
Phone: (717)231-5325

Additional Information: AARP will also provide information about how YOU can take action against electricity price hikes. Limited seating, registration required by calling 1-877-926-8300 by March 2. All registered attendees will receive complimentary snacks and materials.
Handicap Access:

WHEN?
Date: March 6, 2009
Time: 10:30AM - 11:30AM

WHERE?
South Side Senior Center 401 W. Berwick Street, Easton, Pennsylvania Northampton County

Meeting Today

2009-02-17T12:36:00.002-05:00

The Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association will meet today from 2:00 - 3:30 in Conference Room West, Third Floor, 2200 Avenue A, Bethlehem, PA 18017.

Our previously scheduled dementia tour will NOT occur at today, but will be rescheduled for another meeting. Our deepest condolences to the presenter as she deals with a death in her family.

Is Health Care Recession-Proof?

2009-02-13T14:49:00.006-05:00

If the job numbers coming out of Long Island are any indication, then healthcare’s reputation as a “recession-proof” industry is well warranted.

As reported by Newsday on Feb. 2 ("Health care seen as recession-proof job sector"), figures from New York’s Department of Labor show Long Island adding 2,500 education and health service jobs in the 2008 calendar year, even as other sectors suffered serious losses, with trade, transportation and utilities shedding 6,700 jobs and professional and business services shedding 4,700 jobs.

Click here to read PHI's full story on the issue.

What do you think? Have you seen the recession impacting the direct care workforce jobs? Click below on the word "comments" to leave your opinion.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Has Anti-Cancer Components!

2009-02-11T13:36:00.001-05:00

According to the matherlifeways Aging in Action newsletter, Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Has Anti-Cancer Components!

A recent study by Javier Menendez and colleagues found that a chemical in extra-virgin olive oil reduced certain cancer genes. The study showed that good quality extra-virgin olive oil contains certain chemicals that can reduce the risk for breast cancer. Click here for the full story.

Who Are Direct Care Workers?

2009-02-09T11:22:00.003-05:00

PHI released a new fact sheet on direct care workers. Did you know?:

88 % Female
52 % Minority
21 % Foreign born
Average age: 41
Median Annual Earnings for direct-care workers: $17,000
42 % Some college or advanced degree
41 % Receive public benefits such as Medicaid or food stamps
27 % Have no health insurance

Click here to read PHI's full story and the report

Today's NY Times Features an Article About Caregivers!

2009-01-29T12:48:00.002-05:00

The lead article in today's New York Times calls on the federal government to improve wages and labor protections for home care workers. Click here to read the full article.

Pilot Health Plan for Iowa Direct-Care Workers Moving Forward

2009-01-22T08:25:00.002-05:00

According to the Health Care for Health Care Workers blog, a report (pdf) by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and the Division of Insurance outlines a demonstration project that would provide health insurance for up to 250 direct care workers through a voluntary employer-sponsored plan. The report was a directive of HF 2539, a health insurance reform bill passed during the 2008 legislative session.

Click here to read the full story.

Medicare Launches New Website to Assist Caregivers and Others

2009-01-20T10:01:00.001-05:00

Ask Medicare provides information on a wide range of issues and help navigating social services network around the country. Caregivers and others can click on www.medicare.gov/caregivers and browse such topics as: Medicare basics; planning for a healthy future; help with hospitalization; home health care and community services; nursing homes and housing options, and many others.

In summary, Ask Medicare is a one-stop shop with online tools to compare health plan choices across the country, find a prescription drug plan or find a doctor. It can point searchers to helpful telephone numbers, links to partner Web sites, and help them connect with financial assistance.

DCA Blog Talks About Women Coming Together

2009-01-16T11:56:00.002-05:00

The following is an excerpt from the Direct Care Alliance Blog:

"After being so fortunate to attend a first-rate conference on women and work at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and writing a blog about it last month, I have heard from a number of conference attendees who read it. I truly appreciated hearing from you- thanks! Your positive feedback made me feel ..."

Click here to visit the Direct Care Alliance's blog and read Bridget Siljander's full story!

Baby, It IS Cold Outside!

2009-01-15T12:14:00.002-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
Jan. 14, 2009 Department of Health
Commonwealth News Bureau
Room 308, Main Capitol Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120

CONTACT: Stacy Kriedeman
(717) 787-1783

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH URGES PENNSYLVANIANS TO PREPARE FOR DANGEROUSLY COLD WEATHER

HARRISBURG – A surge of arctic air forecast to arrive in Pennsylvania on Thursday will bring hazardous wind chills that could lead to serious health problems, the Health Department warned today.

Temperatures across Pennsylvania are expected to range from the single digits to minus 10 tomorrow, with wind chills forecasted to drop to 5 to 30 below zero.

“Taking preventive action can help you reduce the risk of hypothermia, which is a very real threat in extreme cold-weather conditions,” said acting Secretary of Health Everette James. “When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. Prolonged exposure to cold will eventually use up your body’s stored energy and result in hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature. Hypothermia is particularly dangerous because it slows the functions of many vital organs, including the brain, and you may not realize it is happening.”

Stay alert for signs of hypothermia. These include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of hypothermia are detected, warm the victim up immediately and get medical help as soon as possible.

During periods of extreme cold, the Department of Health recommends that you:
· Make outdoor trips as brief as possible.
· Dress warmly in several layers of loose fitting clothing.
· Cover your mouth and face with a scarf or knit mask to protect your lungs from extremely cold air.
· Keep dry and change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat.
· Avoid exertion as cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart.
· Remain in your vehicle if you become stranded. Keep warm by wrapping your entire body in extra clothing, blankets or newspapers. Move your arms and legs while sitting to improve circulation and stay warmer.
· Watch for signs of frostbite. These consist of loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately.

While hypothermia is generally associated with being outdoors, it can occur indoors if your thermostat is set too low, or there is a power outage or heating system failure. Follow these recommendations:
· Conserve heat by avoiding unnecessary opening of doors or windows. Close off unused rooms, stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors and close draperies or cover windows with blankets at night.
· Monitor body temperature of infants less than one year old. Infants should never sleep in a cold room because they lose body heat more easily than adults and can’t make enough body heat by shivering.
· Check the temperature in your home often if you are over 65 years of age. Older adults often make less body heat because of slower metabolism and less physical activity.
· Check on elderly friends and neighbors frequently to ensure that their homes are adequately heated.
· Eating a well-balanced meal will help you stay warmer. Do not drink alcoholic or caffeinated beverages as they cause your body to lose heat more rapidly.

To learn more about the Department of Health and its services, visit http://www.health.state.pa.us/ or call 1-877-PA HEALTH.

PHI & Partners in Care

2009-01-12T10:03:00.002-05:00

PHI is a provider of training and organizational development services to Partners In Care. In the clip below, Flannery talks about how PHI’s coaching supervision method is helping to transform the workplace culture for her home health aides.

Click here to view the full posting on PHI's blog.

The Digital TV Transition

2009-01-07T12:58:00.002-05:00

Many direct care workers, home health aides in particular, can help their clients through the confusing Digital TV transition that is rapidly approaching. As of midnight, February 17th, clients that use an antenna will not receive TV service unless they receive and install a converter box.

The FCC says at least 10 percent of those that need the converter box are still unaware of the transition. Often TV provides a vital link to the outside world for homebound older adults. Please make sure that your clients are prepared for the transition.

Here is a short guide you can use to inform yourself so you can inform your clients:

Have you heard about the National Direct Care Partnership???

2009-01-06T14:19:00.004-05:00

The National Direct Care Partnership is a coalition of organizations and individuals who recognize the urgent need to improve long-term care by improving direct-care jobs. They advocate for state and federal laws and regulations that support direct-care workers and the people who rely on their services. They are sponsored by the Direct Care Alliance (the national direct care worker association), and their members include direct-care worker associations, long-term care consumers, employers, and advocates across the nation.

Their members take a multi-stakeholder approach to advocacy, bringing together stakeholders from all parts of the long-term care world to amplify their voices on behalf of direct care workers and consumers. They welcome all individuals and groups who care about this issue, including elders and people with disabilities and their advocates and allies, worker associations, nursing home and home care providers, residential group homes, consumer-directed programs, and organized labor.

For more information, call DCA National Advocacy Director Roy Gedat at (207) 739-9179
or Executive Director Leonila Vega at (212) 730-0741

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/DCA_Partners/

Pioneer Network Launches New Website

2009-01-05T08:37:00.002-05:00

According to PHI, Pioneer Network, an organization formed in 1997 to advocate for culture change in eldercare, is celebrating a decade of success with the launch of a new website.

The new site will host Webinars and forums and serve as a repository for research and tools to support the goals of the culture change movement.

Pioneer Network was formed in 1997 by a small group of prominent professionals in long-term care to advocate for person-directed care.

Click here to read the full story.

CMS Launches 5-Star Rating System of Nursing Homes

2008-12-22T12:23:00.001-05:00

Public can now access ratings for the 15,800 nursing homes in the United States that participate in Medicare or Medicaid. Click here to read the full story on PHI's blog.

Casey Bill Designed to Improve the Lives of Older Citizens and Direct Care Workers

2008-12-17T11:30:00.002-05:00

This information was provided to us by Ari Mittleman, Regional Field Representative of Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr. It is provided to you for informational purposes only. The Lehigh Valley Direct Care Workers Association, Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley does not endorse any candidate or specific piece of legislation.

WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), a member of the Senate Aging Committee, introduced the Promoting Small House Nursing Homes Act (S.3732) to improve and increase person-centered long-term residential care and coordinated health care for older Americans. Senator Casey’s statement on the bill is attached.

“This is a bill I expect will play a significant role in the way we care for our older citizens in this country,” said Senator Casey. “I also hope and expect this bill to make an important contribution to the framing and substance of the landmark health care reform we anticipate in the coming year. The bill provides a dramatically different approach to long term residential care for older citizens than is offered by the traditional nursing home model.”

In July, Senator Casey chaired an Aging Committee hearing on the small house nursing home model.

The Promoting Small House Nursing Homes Act would foster significant culture change in long term care for older citizens by providing favorable loan funding for entities that provide person-centered care within a “small house” nursing facility framework. Specifically, it would:

Create a low-interest loan fund for building new or renovating existing long term care facilities that follow articulated small house nursing home model guidelines;

Establish clear and specific program requirements and guidelines that build upon existing programs that have successfully implemented substantial culture change and person-centered care;

Create a home-like and non-institutional model of care for long term care residential facilities that is based upon the principles of: collaborative decision-making; respect; and significantly improved quality of life for residents and staff alike.

###

Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Promoting Small House Nursing Homes Act. This is a bill I expect will play a significant role in the way we care for our older citizens in this country. I also hope and expect this bill to make an important contribution to the framing and substance of the landmark health care reform we anticipate in the coming year. Moreover, because our current economic problems are interwoven with out-of-control health care costs, this bill will contribute to a revitalization of our economy and the creation of new jobs. Finally, it will establish solid criteria for long term residential care that will not only improve the quality of life of older citizens, but save money through cost-effective, comprehensive and coordinated long term and health care.

This bill provides a dramatically different approach to long term residential care for older citizens than is offered by the traditional nursing home model.

The Promoting Small House Nursing Home Act incorporates the principles of person-centered care as a cornerstone of all aspects of long term residential care. What do we mean by person-centered care? The philosophy is simple: Our older citizens deserve to live lives of dignity and respect through all stages of life. About 10 years ago, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported, “Life can have quality and meaning even until the very last breath.” Our older citizens have a profound right to be decision-makers in their own care – to be at the center of their own care, with a partnership of family and providers. And our older citizens are critically important to the overall health and well being of our society. I quote a well known expert in person-centered care, Dr. Bill Thomas, who says, “People of all ages will live better lives when we succeed in bringing elders back to the heart of our society.”

My bill translates this profound philosophy into a specific policy prescription by doing the following:

Creating a low-interest loan fund for building new or renovating existing long term care facilities that follow articulated small house nursing home model guidelines;

Establishing clear and specific program requirements and guidelines that build upon existing programs that have successfully implemented substantial culture change and person-centered care;

Creating a home-like and non-institutional model of care for long term care residential facilities that is based upon the principles of: collaborative decision-making; respect; and significantly improved quality of life for residents and staff alike.

We currently have an estimated 38 million Americans over the age of 65, and that number is expected to double within the next twenty years. In the midst of this, health care costs are rising exponentially, the quality of outcomes is not consistent, and older citizens are often abandoned to navigate a confusing and complex health care system. Older citizens also report extremely low levels of satisfaction with life in nursing homes. This $122 billion industry includes 16,000 nursing homes and significant concerns persist about maltreatment and neglect of our older citizens in 20% of these homes. As I know from my work in state government, most nursing homes provide quality care but that 20% is what we hear most about. However, a recent survey by the AARP found that fewer than 1% of individuals over 50 with a disability want to move to a nursing home. There has to be a better way, and in fact there is.

Person-centered care provides that better way. It is a straightforward concept and yet it has taken years of hard work to get concrete initiatives underway. We have a long way to go and much to learn. But in order to succeed, we must pass legislation like the bill I have introduced today.

Traditional nursing facilities require residents’ lives to revolve around institutional schedules for waking, bathing and dressing. Traditional facilities far too often identify residents by their health conditions, vulnerabilities and room numbers rather than their unique strengths and gifts. Staff members are attracted to the field of direct care service because they want to help older citizens but they are just as ill-served by this institutionalized culture as are the residents. Workers are minimally trained, over-worked and carry patient loads that make it impossible to engage in any personal time with residents – in fact, such relationships are often discouraged. They have little or no say in decision-making, relegated – like the residents – to the fringes of a system that places the needs of the institution over those of the human beings in it.

In July of this year, I chaired a hearing for the Aging Committee that examined this small house nursing home model. One of our witnesses was a nursing assistant who previously worked for a traditional nursing home and now works in a small house nursing home in Pennsylvania. She recounted the difference, saying, ”Looking back on it, now, I realize that while we offered our residents excellent nursing care, that did not always translate into a high quality of life.” She described handling a wider range of duties now, yet having more time to spend with individual residents and really getting to know – and even love - them because the staffing is consistent and the turnover is almost non-existent. Another witness at our July hearing was the daughter of a woman who moved from a traditional nursing home to a small house nursing home. She summed up the dramatic change in her mother with this simple phrase, “Suddenly, life mattered again.”

Mr. President, it should be a given that “life matters” for every person. While every citizen has this fundamental right, our older citizens who have worked hard their whole lives truly deserve to enjoy their later years in homes that offer them comfort, respect and autonomy. I strongly believe the Promoting Small House Nursing Homes Act will make this possible and I urge my Senate colleagues to join me in supporting this effort in its own right as well as the significant role it can play in the larger issues of comprehensive health care reform and revitalizing our economy. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of my bill, S. 3732, the Promoting Small House Nursing Homes Act, appear in the record with this statement and I yield the floor.

100 POSTS and Giving Legislators What They Want!

2008-12-15T08:28:00.004-05:00

Wow. This post is our 100th entry! I hope that we will continue to bring you the latest information, tips and strategies, stories that touch your heart and many more posts in the years to come!

Here is just one more wonderful story from the Direct Care Alliance, Inc.'s blog (the national Direct Care Workers Association!) It was written by Brenda Nachtway. If you attended our conferences last year, you may remember her. She runs the PA State Direct Care Workers Association.

(Brenda and Casey)

Last month, I drove to Washington, D.C., to talk to legislators and their staff about what direct care workers want.

It wasn’t the first time I’ve gotten up close and personal with politicians. In 2007, I organized a direct care worker forum for U.S. Senator Robert Casey. Senator Casey came to the hospital where I work (I’m a hospice aide). He spoke to the direct care workers who showed up to see him, but I think what he liked best was the chance he got to listen and learn. He really seemed interested what the workers had to say in the Q and A after his speech, and he asked me a lot of questions about my job and what could help me do it better.

So it wasn’t exactly news to me to learn, last month, that legislators want to hear from direct care workers. But hearing it so many times – it must have been repeated at least five times during that two-day visit – really drove home the message.

I went to the Capitol with Direct Care Alliance Executive Director Leonila Vega and DCA National Policy Advocate Roy Gedat. They set up the meetings and did most of the talking, since this was mostly a learning experience for me.

The main thing I learned was: When you talk to a legislator, be yourself – but be prepared.

We talked to legislative staff from several states, including Ann Montgomery of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, who was very interested in hearing about the DCA. We also met with a representative of a women’s group.

We also visited Senator Casey. His aide, Morna Murray, told me: “I want you to know, Brenda, that the senator, when he hears your name, can’t stop talking about the day he spend walking in your shoes and how over 100 workers came to hear him from all over the commonwealth. It was really an eye-opening day.” That was pretty thrilling.

Everyone we met with said: “We want to get to know direct care workers. We want to know what their issues are. The only way we’re going to hit this nail in the head when we try to address these issues in our legislation is if we hear from direct-care workers.”

When I came home, I thought about that and called two of my local representatives. I’ll be meeting with U.S. Senator Arlen Specter this Tuesday at the capitol in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The following week, I’ll be meeting with Congressman Chris Carney’s staff member. When they heard that I was a direct care worker, they said, “We’re so excited about meeting somebody who’s actually doing the job."

But I can’t do this alone – and I don’t want to. There are so many congressmen and local legislators throughout the Commonwealth alone, not to mention in the rest of the country. If you’re a direct care worker who wants to improve your job, you need to go out and talk to your local representatives, your congressmen and senators and their staff.

Your local representatives probably don’t have much of a staff, but when you’re trying to reach a U.S. Senator it’s best to start with their staff. They’re the ones who do most of the research and work. They’re a lot easier to reach, too.

Once you get your meeting, tell them a little about yourself. If you’re part of an association that advocates for direct care workers, tell them a little about your group. Then talk about what you see and experience on the job every day. Tell them what would help you deliver better care.

If there’s a bill pending in your state that would help direct care workers, know the name of it and what it’s about so you can urge your representative to support it. And leave something behind that explains who direct care workers are and what we need. On our trip to DC last month, we left behind a handout about the DCA. I also brought evaluation forms from the Pennsylvania Direct Care Workers Association, since they had answers to a question we asked about what issues the association should address. The workers listed all the usual issues: better wages, staffing ratios, health insurance, training, respect for the job we do, being able to move up in position, teaching supervisors how to empower direct care workers.

If you want some help in setting up a meeting with a legislator, or if you just want some moral support, get in touch. I’d love to talk to you about it.

Brenda Nachtway
Direct Care Worker Specialist, Direct Care Alliance
brendanachtway@gmail.com

Doing Heartwork -- The Story of Terrell Cannon

2008-12-12T08:32:00.002-05:00

They call it “heartwork,” because “if you don’t do it from the heart, it makes it hard to do,” Terrell Cannon recently told a Philadelphia Inquirer columnist about the job of a direct-care worker.

Cannon was featured in a recent column called “While helping others, investing in themselves,” which examines the work of Home Care Associates, an employee-owned cooperative and affiliate of PHI located in Philadelphia.

Cannon worked her way up to director of training after a welfare caseworker referred her to HCA in 1993, when, as metro columnist Annette John-Hall writes, Cannon was “pregnant, unemployed, and angry.”

In the following clip from HeartWork, an original theater piece performed by women who work as home health aides and certified nurse aides, Cannon performs a dramatic monologue recounting her journey from a troubled youth to a rewarding career in home health care

Many thanks to PHI for this inspiring story. Read the full article here.

The Health Care Delivery System: A Blueprint for Reform

2008-12-11T11:25:00.001-05:00

The Health Ca re Delivery System: A Blueprint for Reform, published last month by the Center for American Progress and the Institute on Medicine as a Profession, identifies key characteristics of a high-performing health system.

Specifically, the 124-page book lays out a vision for restructuring the organization, quality, and financing of the health care system, proposing policies for the next administration and Congress to enact over the next five years.

Click here to read PHI's full report on the story.

PA Direct Care Workers Quarterly Meeting

2008-12-10T14:30:00.001-05:00

Pennsylvania Direct Care Workers Quarterly Meeting
New meeting place- across from Radisson!
Pa. Home Care Association
20 Erford Rd
Lemoyne, Pa. 17043 1-800-382-1211

JANUARY 8th, 2009

AGENDA

9a.m.-10:30 a.m.- Editorial and Conference Meeting (please note new time)
11:30a.m.- prepare our lunch (bring something to share, contact Brenda with what you will bring) a little social time for ourselves!
12p.m.-working lunch
12:15 p.m.- check in by all – Brenda
12:30 p.m.- Agenda review and review of 09 meeting dates-Pat
12:45 p.m. – Reports on Capitol visits- Connie and Tonya
1:00 p.m. – Joe Angelelli- “Opportunity for Adult Learner-Centered Training Skill Development.”
1:30 p.m.- Conference planning updates and regional reports
2:00 p.m.- Webinar with DCA
3:15 p.m.- Conference committee leave for Country Club of Harrisburg to check out site for 09 conference-DIRECT CARE WORKER’S!!!! Spring into action for a Better Tomorrow…

Any questions please feel free to contact Brenda Nachtway at 570-412-1446

JOIN US TODAY!

2008-12-09T13:26:00.004-05:00

We are currently preparing to print 2009 Membership Cards for the Lehigh Valley Direct Care Workers Association. Consider joining today to receive these benefits:

· Access to our free monthly meetings (with cookies and coffee!)
· Access to this blog!
· Ability to participate in local trainings to learn new skills that can help you provide better care to your clients and gain promotions in your workplace.
· Ability to ask your questions to a seasoned direct care worker and have your questions answered
· Voice your opinions on a local, state and national level about issues facing direct care workers
· Meet and share ideas with other direct care workers from various facilities and organizations.
· Membership looks great on a resume!
· Discuss helpful ways to communicate skills, resolve conflicts and work as a team.
· Stay current on the latest public policy issues

There is absolutely no fee to join the Lehigh Valley Chapter (and it looks great on a resume).

To join, simply email Cori Rolón at corir@unitedwayglv.org with the following information:- Your name- Your employer- Your home or work address- Your phone number- Your email address

It is that simple!

Growing Your Staff

2008-12-08T09:27:00.002-05:00

Are you having trouble recruiting and maintaining adequate staff? Click here to check out an article from PHI!

This article reports on several nursing homes' efforts to address the nursing and direct-care workforce shortages. The report discusses common causes of turnover and outlines initiatives that facilities have employed to address it. Programs include creating an in-house school of nursing, developing lines of communication between staff and management, increasing staff to patient ratios, providing career ladders for certified nursing assistants and licensed vocational nurses, making changes to the workplace culture, and addressing low wages.

Arden Courts Holiday Networking Mixer

2008-12-04T11:24:00.002-05:00

JOIN THE FOLKS AT ARDEN COURTS FOR SOME HOLIDAY FUN!! NEXT WEDNESDAY!
Lehigh Valley Aging In Place Coalition Holiday Networking Mixer

Arden Courts Alzheimer’s Assisted Living
5151 Hamilton Blvd.
Allentown, Pa 18106

Bring a Friend or two or twenty to share what Lehigh Valley Aging in Place Coalition has to offer.

PLEASE RSVP TO:
Karen Francis @ 610-366-9010 or email 366mktg@hcr-manorcaqre.com

SEE YOU THERE!!!

Struggling Seniors

2008-12-03T09:52:00.000-05:00

CALL FOR STORIES: Elders Struggling to Make Ends Meet

Do you work with seniors who are having trouble making ends meet?
Do you know of elders who are skipping meals or splitting medications to conserve them?
Do you come in contact with adult children struggling financially because of their care giving responsibilities to an aging parent?

If so, please help Wider Opportunities for Women (WOW) collect their stories. These stories will be featured on the WOW website along with other seniors, baby boomers and family caregivers who are struggling to get by. These profiles will help support efforts to raise awareness and promote policy and program change to assure the economic well-being of elders and their families. Help WOW educate policy makers and the media about how difficult it is for seniors in our communities to afford nutritious food, prescription medications and utilities in today’s economy!

Contact Stacy Sanders at ssanders@wowonline.org or (202) 464-1596 to find out more.
THANK YOU!

Focus on Energy

2008-12-02T09:50:00.001-05:00

State Senator Pat Browne
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission
PPL Corporation
Safe Kids Coalition

Present
“Focus on Energy”
FREE Lunch & Learn Session
Thursday December 4, 2008
11:00am—2:00pm
The Caring Place
931 Hamilton Street ~ Allentown

· Learn ways to save and conserve on your energy bills.
· Information on customer assistance programs to help you pay your home
heating bills.
· Enrollment information for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
· Important fire prevention and safety tips.

For more information and to reserve your seat, call
Senator Browne’s Allentown office
(610) 821-8468.

PHI Releases Adult Learner-Center Training Guide

2008-11-26T08:36:00.002-05:00

Turnover among direct-care workers, especially those who are new on the job, is an ongoing issue for long-term care employers. Many factors contribute to the problem, but one workers themselves often cite, is inadequate preparation for the job.

Recognizing that traditional training programs are often not effective, PHI, over the last two decades, has developed a different approach to preparing workers. Drawing on the principles of adult learning, PHI trainings engage learners more actively through small group work, role plays, and other interactive techniques.

These learner-centered trainings are more successful than traditional approaches in developing workers communication, problem solving and work readiness skills, giving workers the tools they need to develop positive caregiving relationships.

Click here to read full article and download the training guide.

Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging

2008-11-25T13:22:00.003-05:00

Many members of the Lehigh Valley Direct Care Workers Association may wonder about the Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging (LVAA) and how they fit into the association.

Here is a brief overview.

The United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley (UWGLV) created the Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging (LVAA/the Alliance) in May 2001. LVAA’s vision is the Lehigh Valley will be a community where older adults can remain in their homes and continue to live full lives with as much choice as possible. The mission is to advance strategies ensuring longterm care and supportive service systems meet the existing and emerging needs of all older adults. The Alliance is a community building partnership of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.

Governance of the Alliance rests in a 22-person steering committee staffed by the United Way, which also acts as fiduciary agent. The LVAA maintains a current membership of more than 140, with an outstanding attendance and participation rate of 87% on all planning levels. Beyond the steering committee, remaining Alliance members participate on one or more of the five priority focus committees: Communications, Housing Options, Workforce Development, Mobility Options, and Intergenerational Opportunity. Consumers are equally represented on all planning
levels.

The Workforce Development committee of United Way created the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association to help with the retention and recruitment of Direct Care Workers in the Lehigh Valley. The Alliance staff work together to implement strategies developed by the members of the Association.

Besides Cori, the manager that works most closely with the Association, there are two other staff members: Arlene and Sue:

PHI Launches the 9 Essential Elements of Quality Care

2008-11-21T14:31:00.003-05:00

PHI recently announced the nine essential elements of quality care:

Individualized

1. Directed by informed choices made by the consumer (or, where appropriate, by family members or other designated representatives);
2. Offered at the time and place most preferable to the consumer, in a manner that is safe and unhurried; and
3. Provided in a way that honors the consumer’s individuality and preferences.

Respectful

4. Acknowledging the consumer’s right to dignity and privacy, both physical and emotional;
5. Supporting all those involved in the caregiving relationship—the consumer, family members, and the direct-care worker—to relate as individuals in an environment of trust and mutual respect, and
6. Sustaining the consumer’s full range of relationships with friends and family members, and promoting opportunities for broader community engage

Professional

7. Holistic—supporting well-being, health, independence, and quality of life;
8. For consumers with medical needs, consistent with progressive standards of clinical practice—those that are individualized, respectful and coordinated across settings; and
9. Provided by direct-care workers who have quality jobs that allow them to provide the highest-quality services and support.

Click here to view the full story

Live United!

2008-11-20T11:15:00.007-05:00

David Seng, Director of Marketing at Human Touch Home Health Care in Allentown, is "living united". He gives back to the community by being involved in the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Direct Care Workers Association!

Many thanks to David for attending our monthly meetings and offering great ideas on ways to recruit more members!

Westminster Village to Hold Lights of Love Tribute

2008-11-10T10:11:00.001-05:00

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness month

Join Westminster Village in their annual celebration service for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and Lights of Love Tribute!

Sunday, November 16, 2008
at 2 PM in
the Commons Dining Room

Reverend Allen Hermansader, Senior pastor for PHI will officiate.

Pa State Representative Douglas Ruchley, legislative district and member of the Alzheimer’s Appropriation Committee will present a proclamation, as well as recognize the advocacy and professional contributions of Dr. Donna Miller., D.O. to the residents, families and colleagues living in the greater Lehigh Valley. Dr. Miller’s dedication to the field of geriatric medicine to assist people, her striving efforts for better benefits & faced with aging issues, her actions for legislative changes.

RSVP to crepsher@phi-preshomes.org
or call 610-782-8301

Westminster Village Dementia Leadership Initiative

2008-11-07T10:21:00.003-05:00

FREE EDUCATION SERIES!!!

Supported in part by the Dexter F. and Dorothy H. Baker Foundation

Topic: Your Brain Health Lifestyle: Preserving Your Life Story

Date: Thursday, November 13, 2008

Time: 12:30 pm - Dessert buffet and networking
1:00 - 3:00 pm - Public Lecture

Location: Sacred Heart Hospital, Second Floor Auditorium, 421 Chew Street, Allentown, PA

Free Parking: Sacred Heart Hospital Chew Street deck or 5th Street Parking deck

RSVP by calling 610-782-8460 or email crepsher@phi.prehomes.org

Tools for Quality Workforce Released by PHI

2008-11-04T09:39:00.002-05:00

As reported on the PHI blog, several findings and tools from the Better Jobs Better Care demonstration project have been released.

Many of you will remember that the Lehigh Valley Direct Care Workers Association was created as part of that project.

Most notably, are these reports:

Solutions You Can Use: Transforming the Long-Term Care Workforce takes the major findings and examines how aging-services providers can use them to build a quality workforce. The booklet is organized by WHAT WE LEARNED and WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU.

The findings are organized around four themes:

Where to find new pools of workers
What interventions improve retention
The training direct-care workers and nurse supervisors want and need
How to develop cultural competence

A Crisis With A Solution: Tools and Resources for Transforming the Long-Term Care Workforce is a compilation of the tools and resources used and developed by BJBC and the grantees.
An accompanying 9-minute video features several BJBC providers sharing their journey from a workplace in crisis to one that empowers direct-care workers and is transforming the way they do business. Narrated by Robyn Stone, BJBC national program director and IFAS executive director, it shares the overall lessons learned during the four-year project.

PA Direct Care Worker Association Organizes a Day for YOU to Speak to Your Legislators!

2008-11-03T08:33:00.003-05:00

The Pennsylvania Direct Care Worker Association is organizing a day at the state capitol for our membership to speak to legislators concerning the daily problems facing direct care workers.

On Oct. 9th, Brenda Nachtway attended a meeting with Rep. Mundy’s staff and was assured that our legislators need and want to hear directly from direct care workers in their districts. They want to discuss how we can all work together to resolve problems like staff shortages, lack of respect given to DCW’s, lack of adequate and affordable healthcare, and better wages.

If you have a passion for the work we all do then PLEASE contact Brenda:

Brenda Nachtway
Email: icare@jlink.net
Phone: 547-412-1446

If you would like to attend, they need to hear from you by Nov. 10 with your phone#, e-mail address, area you live in and your local representatives’ names. The meetings will be scheduled in December.

Home Centered Health Care Workshop

2008-10-28T10:01:00.002-04:00

Phoebe Institute on Aging presents the Home Centered Health Care Workshop!

$35 per person. Half-day workshop, includes lunch.

Workshop Schedule

8:15 am Coffee and Registration
8:30 am– 8:45 am Welcome and Introductions
8:45 am– 10:15 am Dr. Mike Magee Home Centered Health Care: A vision for the future of senior care and services
10:15 am– 10:30 am Break
10:30 am– 11:30 am John Michael Hall Pennsylvania’s vision for long term living
11:30 am– noon Questions and Answers
Noon – 1:30 pm Luncheon and roundtable discussions with aging services leaders

SEATING IS LIMITED!

For more information contact:

Phoebe Institute on Aging
Institutional Advancement #24
1925 Turner Street
Allentown, PA 18104
Fax 610.794.5414
E-mail: hhaas@phoebe.org
Call 610.794.5135

LVAA Launches the NEW Direct Care Worker Section of Webpage!

2008-10-24T11:35:00.003-04:00

For the past several years, the Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging, a strategic partnership of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, has maintained a website for older adults and those that care for them. One of the sections of the website is dedicated to our Lehigh Valley Direct Care Workers Association.

AND IT IS COMPLETELY REDESIGNED!

Click here to stop by the site today and check out:

* The Come Aboard Booklet -- a downloadable and printable booklet written BY Direct Care Workers FOR Direct Care Workers. It has tips and hints for the first 90 days on the job.
* Minutes for our monthly meetings
* A link to this blog
* Conferences and Trainings
* Information on becoming a member
* Association flyers

Don't forget to check out the other sections of the website for the latest information on transportation, housing, life planning, the BenefitsCheckUp program and more!

National Memory Screening Day 2008

2008-10-21T10:55:00.003-04:00

Are you concerned for yourself or a family member?
FREE confidential memory screenings are available!

Tuesday, November 18, 2008
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Phoebe Terrace Retirement Community
1940 Turner Street, Allentown

Call 610-974-6555 for more information or to reserve your place.

Bayada Training

2008-10-21T10:51:00.000-04:00

Bayada invites you to attend our Fall Educational Seminar Dinner
Wednesday November 12th
Reception 4:30 – 5:30; Dinner & Speaker 5:30 – 6:30

Guest Speaker: Lisa Fiore RN, CRRN of

The Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis
Credits Received 1.2 CEU’s

Please RSVP Nancy Dominguez by Nov. 10th Call for directions (610) 829-0100
215 Cedar Park Blvd. Easton Pa 18042

Public Policy Issues Impacting You!

2008-10-20T08:29:00.003-04:00

The following information was compiled by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and is provided to you for informational purposes only. The Lehigh Valley Direct Care Workers Association, Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging (LVAA) and United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley do not endorse any specific piece of legislation or candidate.

House Companion to Empowered at Home Act Introduced

On Sept. 28, House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee Chairman Pallone (D-NJ) and Rep. DeGette (D-CO), introduced H.R. 7212, the House companion to Sen. Kerry’s (D-MA) Empowered at Home Act (S. 3327). The bill is designed to improve states’ ability to provide Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) to eligible beneficiaries.

According to NCOA, both the House and Senate bills would:

Develop Medicaid demonstration grants for evidence-based health promotion and disease prevention programs, similar to those available under the OAA.
Improve the HCBS State Plan Amendment Option passed under the Deficit Reduction Act (DRA) of 2005.
Ensure that spousal impoverishment protections available to couples in nursing homes also are available to those who choose HCBS.
Improve Medicaid HCBS data collection.
Analyze and report on state implementation of the Medicaid Home Health program.

In addition, the House bill would increase the federal Medicaid match (FMAP) by five percent for HCBS State Plan Amendment services provided under the DRA. It also would exclude from the asset/resource eligibility criteria for Medicaid HCBS services an amount equivalent to the cost of six months of nursing facility services. • Read H.R. 7212.

Social Security Announces 2009 Cost-of-Living Adjustment

On Oct. 16, the Social Security Administration announced a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 5.8 percent for 2009, the largest increase since 1982. Social Security COLAs are based on increases in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) over the past year. In January, the COLA will be applied to the Social Security benefits of over 50 million Americans. The increase for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which goes to more than seven million beneficiaries, will begin on Dec. 31. The average Social Security benefit will increase $63 per month, compared with an average $24 per month increase in 2008. • Read more about the COLA.

AARP 2008 Voter Guide Available

AARP has released its Voter Guide for the 2008 election cycle. This Web-based tool presented questions to state and national candidates based on issues that are important to AARP members. Each candidate had the opportunity to respond, and AARP posted their responses (limited to 125 words). Issues include Social Security, retirement savings, healthcare affordability, and long-term care.• View the Presidential Election Voter Guide. • View the State Elections Voter Guide.

Arden Courts Holds Alzheimer's Candlelight Reflection

2008-10-16T13:31:00.000-04:00

NOVEMBER IS
NATIONAL ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH
AND NATIONAL FAMILY CAREGIVER MONTH

Arden Courts ♥
5151 Hamilton Blvd.
Allentown, PA 18106
(610)366-9010

INVITES YOU TO ATTEND
CANDLELIGHT REFLECTIONS

NOVEMBER 24, 2008
Beginning at 2:30PM

For those who now struggle with Alzheimer’s disease
For Families, Caregivers, Friends and Supporters
For those who have died of Alzheimer’s disease
And for those who seek the cause, cure, prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease-
We will light our candles in memory and support,
We will light our candles in hope.

Space is limited for this service. Please R.S.V.P. by calling
610-366-9010 by November 18,2008

Pennsylvania Behavioral Health and Aging Coalition -- Northeast Regional Meeting

2008-10-08T13:53:00.001-04:00

Eldercare Assessment & Resources
A Community Services Group Program
is pleased to host:
Pennsylvania Behavioral Health and Aging Coalition-Northeast Regional Meeting

Thursday, November 6th: 10 AM – 2:30 PM
Best Western-Lehigh Valley Hotel
300 Gateway Drive, Bethlehem
Training in Health Literacy, Cultural Sensitivity, and Advance Care Planning
(CEUs applied for Nursing, Psychology, Social Work, and CME’s for Physicians)
Presented by Linda Shumaker, R.N., C., M.A.
LUNCH AND WORKSHOP SPONSORED BY GERIATRIC EDUCATION CENTER OF PENNSYLVANIA CONSORTIUM (University of Pittsburgh, The Pennsylvania State University, and Temple University)
Please RSVP by October 31st to CSG-Eldercare at 484-895-3720
Email: zbyszinskv@csgonline.org