CONTENTS

3 It’sYourChoice

4 Long-TermCare

6 WhenHospiceCanHelp

7 TheGiftofGiving

The Home PageFall 2011

Who was Supposed tobe Watching Grandma?

There is a popular tune played this time of year called, “Grandma Got Run Over by A Reindeer.” It tells the story of how Grandma

-- after drinking too much eggnog -- goes into the winter cold to get her medication and is run over by a reindeer. The question is, “Who was supposed to be watching Grandma?”

Though this little tune elicits much laughter, it should raise alarms for many elderly caregivers. Caregivers know that even at a holiday party they cannot let down their diligent watch over their elderly loved one. As far-fetched as it may sound, with all the people and noise, an elderly family member with dementia or Alzheimer’s may be enjoying the family gathering and then suddenly become confused, walk to the door, and leave.

For family caregivers, the added stress of the holidays with decorating, shopping, parties and keeping up with all the family traditions is an overwhelming quest. Feelings of isolation, depression and sadness come with this added stress. There are millions of Americans who are caring for elderly, frail loved ones, and most of these caregivers will go through some of these emotions, especially this time of year.

There are some things you can do as a caregiver to help you and those you care for enjoy the holiday season.

First take care of yourself. Try to eat right, get plenty of sleep and exercise. This will help reduce stress and strengthen your ability to cope with care-giving responsibilities.

Prioritize your holiday traditions. Perhaps instead of cooking a large family dinner, have everyone bring his or her favorite dish. Use paper plates. Forfeit the traditional outside light decorating for a lighted wreath on the front door. Choose one or two parties or concerts to attend instead of trying to do it all. continued on pg 3

It is YOUR choice!Stand up for your right to choose your home health care or hospice agency!

Home Health Care

I love this time of year. For me, it is a time to slow down and reflect on all the blessings I have in my life. I encourage each Homepage reader to take this valuable time as well.

First and foremost, I consider my family my greatest blessing. Thanks to the love, dedication and commitment of my parents, Mark and Shirley Baker, I have received an outstanding education and learned valuable morals and values that guide me in decisions I make at home and at work as president of Care Corporation. It was my mother’s compassion and vision that established this home health care agency. I am proud to continue in her footsteps, overseeing the outstanding staff at Care Corp who gently care for the sick, injured or terminally ill residents within Geauga County.

This outstanding team of professionals employed at Care Corp is second to none. Our nurses are some of the best in their field, with years of emergency room and critical care experience working at hospitals across northeast Ohio. Our therapists, home health aides, homemakers/companions, administrative staff, social workers and tireless group of volunteers are all committed to delivering quality, compassionate care to each client. I thank each of them for their work on behalf of our patients and their families.

It has also been my privilege to work with an exceptional group of physicians who practice in Geauga County. It is no wonder why northeast Ohio is considered a leader in health care throughout the world. Thank you for the trust you place in Care Corp as you continue to refer your patients to this home care agency.

Finally, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to our patients and their families who rely on Care Corporation for their home health care needs. Each day, a staff member comments on how they have been personally touched by a kind word, thoughtful note or compassionate smile from you. We learn so much through the example of your strength, dignity, courage and love.

May this holiday season bring renewed health, joy, peace and love.

With gratitude,

Jason BakerCEO/President of Care Corporation

Medicare beneficiaries, by law, have the right to choose their providers; this includes home

health care and hospice agencies. When you or a loved one is/are in a hospital, the hospital, by law, must perform discharge planning. This is the process by which they determine what your needs will be upon discharge, so you can be accommodated.

When the discharge plan includes home health care or hospice care, a referral must be made by the hospital to the agency of YOUR choice. If you do not have a preference, they can give the referral to their own agency. However, if you have a preference and state it, by law, they must honor YOUR CHOICE.

If you ask for Care Corp and another agency calls or shows up, simply tell them you want Care Corp or call us, and we will be happy to help. Too often, Care Corp hears of these violations after the fact and is told the patient and family did not want to cause problems or feared retribution the next time they were hospitalized. This is such a shame because a hospital has caused this problem, broken a law, and violated your rights as a patient. You do not need to fear retribution. The doctors, nurses and aides in the hospital are all there to care for you. It is the management that is directing you to their agency for financial reasons.

Stand up for your right to choose your home health care or hospice agency.

When a hospice discussion is needed, simply ask for Hospice of Care Corp. We are happy to talk with you or your family about hospice, answer any questions, and start services as soon or as far off as you wish. After all, this is about you and your wishes.

Don’t assume because a hospital knows you’ve had Care Corp for home health that when hospice is mentioned, you will get Hospice of Care Corp. Ask for us by name and INSIST your choice is respected. ¬

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Season’s Greetingsfrom Our Family to Yours

Geauga County Assisted Living Facilities

Amelia Grace7090 Wilson Mills Rd.

Chesterland, OH 44026

Arden Courts8100 East Washington

Chagrin Falls, OH 44023

Barclay Residence13149 GAR HighwayChardon, OH 44024

Bradford Manor

13079 Manor DriveChardon, OH 44024

Briarcliff Manor

14807 N. State StreetMiddlefield, OH 44062

Brooks House

18144 Claridon-Troy Rd.Hiram, OH 44234

Chardon Assisted Living

200 Claridon RoadChardon, OH 44024

Emily’s Post (Holly Hill)

10190 Fairmount RoadNewbury, OH 44065

Geauga Assisted Living16065 GAR HighwayMontville, OH 44064

Geauga Country Estates8530 Madison Rd.

Montville, OH 44064

Joy’s Place 112222 Mayfield Rd.Chardon, OH 44024

Lantern of Madison2041 Hubbard Rd.

Madison, OH 44057

Milestones Assisted Living8885 E. Washington St

Chagrin Falls, OH 44023

Precious Care Assisted Living

8095 Auburn Rd.Concord, OH 44077

Princeton Place(Blossom Hill)

12496 Princeton RoadHuntsburg, OH 44046

Residence of Chardon501 Chardon-Windsor Rd.

Chardon, OH 44024

The Liberty12350 Bass Lake Rd,Chardon, OH 44024

Weils of Bainbridge16695 Chillicothe Rd.

Chagrin Falls, OH 44023

Who was watching Grandma ~ from page 1

Arrange for help. Call on other family members to help with the care-giving while you do your shopping or go out for the evening. If family is not available, ask your church group or a neighbor if they would donate a few hours.

Use community services. The Geauga Department on Aging provides meals for the elderly as well as a host of free services. For a comprehensive list of senior services in Geauga County, call the Geauga County Department on Aging at 440.279.2130.

According to Vicki Krueger, Adult Day Care Service Coordinator at the Geauga Department on Aging, seniors become regular participants in the Adult Day Care Program and may choose which days each week they would like to participate. “Our hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Advanced notice is required, and there is some paperwork to fill out,” says Krueger. “I would encourage seniors to sign up and try it. The program has made a difference in many lives.” While donations are suggested, this program is free to Geauga residents.

“My advice to family members this holiday season is to slow down and enjoy your senior family member while they are still around,” encourages Krueger with a smile. Transportation to and from the Chardon Senior Center is free.

Use adult day care services. Some assisted living facilities provide day activities and meals for seniors on a day-by-day basis; many offer 24-hour care as well. These “adult day service providers provide these services at a reasonable cost and enable caregivers to take a break from their care-giving responsibilities. Their elderly loved ones enjoy the additional social interaction as well. There is a cost for adult day services, but the benefit is worth it.

Joy’s Place at12222 Mayfield Road in Munson Township, provides excellent residential as well as respite care for families in need. “Our 24-hour staff can meet the needs of families on a long- or short-term basis and provide respite for families caring for their loved ones -- whether it’s to take some needed time to Christmas shop or enjoy a much-needed vacation,” suggests Joy Black, RN, owner of Joy’s Place. Advance notice is required.

Technology to the rescue. Here is another solution that would have kept “Grandma” from wandering out in the winter cold and getting run over by a reindeer. Companies that have created monitoring systems, security alarms and other safety equipment are “tweaking” them to adapt to the needs of seniors and their care givers.Here are a few examples:

• Ankle or wrist bands that monitor location and alert the provider when a person has gone beyond the designated perimeter, such as out the front door of the house.• Motion detectors. Set throughout the home, motion detectors allow someone outside the home to follow a senior as he or she moves through the house.• Smart medication dispensers. Live monitoring and dispensing of pills.• Emergency response alert. At a touch of a button on a desktop monitor, bracelet or necklace, emergency help is summoned.

Whether providing care in your home or helping senior family members in their own homes, your use of monitoring and “tech” help aids can provide extra safety for your loved ones. As the number of family members providing care for aging parents increases, the solutions to find help with loss of income because of time off from employment for care-giving has become a major concern for many. Care Corp provides respite care for your convenience. Simply call us at 440.286.2273 or 888.227.3811 ¬

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completed, we encourage people to complete a Financial Power of Attorney.” The experienced lawyer suggests people consider writing a will and setting up trusts.

Schaff says the big question she asks her clients is what kind of care they want to receive. “For instance, if a woman has her daughter moving in to provide care, I may be asked to write a clause that states mom wants her daughter to be paid, or if she lives with her for more than two years, the house is to be transferred to her name,” Schaff suggests. “Some want all their money to be used to provide their care. Others don’t want to use up everything -- particularly if they have children.”

“One of the problems with long-term care is the benefits are piecemeal,” Schaff insists. For example, the Alzheimer Association administers a respite fund so people can be eligible for up to $200 a month to pay for respite care. Unless notified by an attorney who specializes in elderly care law, people would not know of this benefit.

The Geauga County Department on Aging also has a program that entitles Geauga seniors to three hours of free legal service per year, or six with your spouse. This is the only county in the state

It’s simply a fact of life that each of us must prepare financially for unexpected

disasters by covering homes, automobiles and health with insurance policies and providing funding for our retirement. But no other life event can be as devastating to one’s lifestyle, finances and security as needing long-term care.

Long-term care can drastically alter or completely eliminate three principal retirement dreams of elderly Americans, which are:

1. Remaining independent in the home without intervention from others 2. Maintaining good health and receiving adequate health care 3. Having enough money for everyday needs and not outliving assets and income

It is important for all of us to prepare for the day when we will need to help loved ones with elder care, or we will need elder care for ourselves.

The First StepTroy Mollé, licensed social worker at Care Corporation, says home care clients often ask her what steps they should take to get their personal life in order. “I advise them to call someone who specializes in elderly estate planning and long-term care planning,” responds Mollé. “It is

important to have documentation that guides family members, friends and physicians to insure your desires are followed.”

Pat Schraff, a partner at Schraff & King, explains that her legal firm specializes in elderly disabilities law, including estate planning, estate administration, probate court matters like guardianship and will contests, as well as planning for long-term care. “The most common phrase I hear from clients is ‘I am so overwhelmed.’ It can be confusing as to how to look at the big picture and create a plan. When we first meet with people, we ask them to complete an estate planning questionnaire that asks three important questions:

1. Who are the important people in your life?2. What are your assets?3. What is your income?

“Once we have the big picture, we talk about what they want to see happen,” says Schraff, in practice for more than 30 years. Schraff & King is located at 2802 Som Center Road, Suite 200, in Willoughby Hills.

Schraff says it is important for individuals to have a Health Care Power of Attorney, Living Will Declaration and signed HIPAA release. “You must sign this authorization to allow the release of health care information -- even to your spouse,” Schraff cautions. “Once these three health care building blocks are

Long-Term CareNew Year’s Resolution - Plan for

This is part one of a two-part series that investigates long-term care planning. Part II will look at the

long-term care cycle and long-term care insurance.

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EmploymentAnniversariesCongratulations to the

following employees who are celebrating their employment anniversaries with Care Corp:

25 YearsDebbie Koch

10 YearsMarsha Hiscox

Gregg Esenwine

5 YearsBonnie Beauregard

Cindy BrostekJackie Esenwine

Janet HozhaeusserAnn Jardine

Donna McGrath-NedrowTroy MolléKris Powers

Jeanine TamburroBecky Peterson

"I would like to thank each of these outstanding individuals

for their service to Care Corp. Your dedication, service and compassion

are second to none," Jason Baker, CEO/President of Care Corporation, says. "Additionally, I cannot

say enough about Debbie Koch, RN. Her experience,

knowledge and skill as a registered nurse with Care Corp has not only enabled

a higher quality of life for so many of our patients, but she has served as an outstanding

role-model and mentor to the other registered nurses

we employ. I sincerely thank each of you."

of Ohio that offers this kind of program. It is funded by the Geauga County Senior Services levy and Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging. Schraff & King provide legal advice as part of this program for a reduced fee. The Geauga County Department on Aging provides this legal service three days a month at either of three local senior centers: Middlefield, Chagrin Falls and Chesterland. Appointments are required by calling the Geauga Department on Aging.

Obviously, there is a definite economic benefit to meeting with an attorney. “To go blindly into long-term care and not look at the big picture can be costly,” warns Schraff. “Medicare pays for some assisted living facility, nursing home and home care. I do everything I can to keep people in their home if that is their desire.”

Will You Need Long-Term Care?Anyone with experience caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or who is recovering from a stroke can appreciate the severity and financial devastation of these all-too-common life events.

The average ancient Greek lived until age 18. The Puritan lived to an average of 33. Today, the average American life expectancy is about 75 years for men and 84 for women. Over half of Americans will spend part of these extended years in long-term care situations. Americans are living longer and healthier, thanks to a smarter diet, better medical care and safer living and work environments. Still, no one is immune from the effects of aging and longevity -- effects that often reduce physical and mental abilities.

The estimated risk for needing long-term care continues to climb with each passing year. Today, the Federal government estimates that each individual

has a 70 percent chance of needing long-term care in their lifetime. Recent studies reveal that if you are 60 years old, you have more than a 60 percent chance of needing long-term care. If you are over 65 years old, your chances of needing care goes up to 70 percent.

Who Is More At Risk for Needing Long-Term Care!Your age, marital status, gender, lifestyle and, to some extent, your family health history all play a part in the possibility of needing long-term care.

According to the Long Term Care Insurance National Advisory Center, you are more at risk if you:

• are older• are a woman• are single• have a poor diet• don’t exercise regularly• smoke• participate in physical activities that can cause severe accidents • have a family history of Alzheimer’s, stroke, arthritis, or other degenerative diseases.

The Cost of Long-Term CareIn 1994, 7.3 Americans needed long-term care services at an average cost of nearly $43,800 per year. By 2000, this number rose to 9 million Americans at a cost of nearly $55,750 per year. Today, this cost is near $75,000 annually. By 2030, those needing long-term care will skyrocket to 23 million Americans with a projected cost reaching $300,000 annually per individual.

A New Year’s resolution to plan for your long-term care is a step in the right direction. “I encourage individuals to develop a long-term care plan while they are still healthy and not doing it under duress,” encourages Jason Baker, CEO and President of Care Corporation.¬

To be continued in the Winter 2012 issue of Homepage

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The diagnosis of a terminal illness is often devastating and tragic. You or your

loved one may feel powerless, overwhelmed, and frightened. Please remember, you are not alone. Your Geauga County neighbor, Hospice of Care Corp, is here to help.

Hospice of Care Corp provides support and comfort for you or a loved one with a life-limiting illness. Gentle, compassionate professionals comprise the Hospice of Care Corp team. These supportive individuals are dedicated to provide the best possible care, including comfort and pain relief.

Through our 27 years in delivering quality home health care, the Care Corporation staff has been asked countless questions about hospice care in general. In this article, we attempt to answer some commonly asked questions that may help you to decide if hospice is right for you or your loved one.

What is hospice?Hospice involves comprehensive care to insure the comfort and support of patients with a life-limiting illness and their families. Hospice care is delivered by a team of specialists with experience and expertise in end-of-life care.

Why hospice?The hospice philosophy is that there is a lot of living to accomplish during all phases of life. With expert symptom management through hospice, patients can find dignity, meaning, and peace during their last months, weeks or even days of life.

When is it time for hospice?It is time for hospice when a person is ready to focus on living fully at the end of his or her life. Many patients are referred too late to benefit fully from all the services

offered through hospice. Generally, it is time for hospice when a patient is expected to live six months or less.

Hospice of Care Corp suggests erring on the side of earlier access. If in doubt, call Hospice of Care Corp to discuss your personal situation.

Who can refer a patient to hospice?It is not necessary to wait for a doctor to suggest hospice. Anyone can refer a patient to hospice. Some patients refer themselves. Feel free to ask your doctor about hospice care or contact Hospice of Care Corp directly at 440.286.CARE (2273) or 888.227.3811.

Who is eligible for hospice?There are no age or disease restrictions for hospice. Let’s address a few of the common misconceptions. Many people associate hospice with cancer. Actually, only half of hospice patients have cancer. Heart disease; end-stage lung, kidney or liver disease; Alzheimer’s; ALS; or any disease in a life-ending phase are eligible for hospice. In addition, patients experiencing serious multi-symptom decline involving severe cases of poor nutrition, weight loss, inactivity and mental impairment (also referred to as “failure to thrive”) are also eligible for hospice care.

Eligibility for hospice services must be certified by the patient’s doctor as well as the hospice physician. Hospice of Care Corp works closely with the patient’s physician in developing their hospice care plan.

Where is hospice delivered?Hospice care is provided wherever a person calls “home.” This includes a private home or apartment, assisted living facility or nursing home. Some hospice services also operate inpatient facilities where professional staff meet special care needs that cannot be met effectively in a private home setting. Our Hospice of Care Corp staff will be happy to offer

suggestions if a inpatient hospice setting is desired.

What will hospice workers do?The Hospice of Care Corp team’s overwhelming goal is to see patients spend their final days with dignity and quality. Common hospice services include:* Providing pain management and symptom control* Assessing and managing all physical symptoms related to the illness, such as pain, nausea, anxiety, fatigue or shortness of breath* Offering on-call availability to meet the needs of both patients and families* Creating an individualized plan that will enable the patient to achieve their final goals. * Helping the patient and family navigate through end-of-life decisions by providing material on advance directives, do-not-resuscitate orders, or a Medicaid application*Addressing emotional, spiritual and social aspects of coping with a serious illness* Honoring specific customs of all ethnic backgrounds* Providing bereavement support for family members for more than one year following the patient’s death

Hospice of Care Corp offers a bereavement support group throughout the year for any family member or loved one who can benefit from the companionship and support of others who understand their grief.

Who comprises the hospice team?At Hospice of Care Corp, your physician is a vital part of the team if the patient wishes. Team members include the hospice medical director, registered nurses, licensed social workers, spiritual care director, home health aides, homemakers/companions, bereavement coordinator and volunteers. If needed, physical,

CAN HELPWhen Hospice When Hospice

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occupational and speech therapists as well as pet, music and massage therapists will visit the home as well.

This compassionate team works with the patient and family to set goals and keep the patient as comfortable and symptom-free as possible. Team members will visit the home on a schedule convenient for both the patient and family.

In addition, Hospice of Care Corp’s dedicated volunteers will be happy to visit with patients and give family members time off for their other responsibilities. Support groups and counseling are also available to patients and their families during as well as after the patient’s death.

Who pays for hospice care?Special hospice coverage under Medicare pays for expenses incurred in the treatment of a terminal illness -- such as medications, durable medical equipment, medical supplies, respite care and inpatient care. Most private insurance plans also have some hospice coverage. Payment varies according to individual policies.

Many hospice care providers will work with the patient and family to resolve financial concerns.

How can hospice help you?The best way to answer this question is to let former Hospice of Care Corp families respond. Let us share some of the warm, appreciative letters we have received recently.

“You matter because of who you are.You matter to the last

moment of your life.”

- Dame Cicely SaundersFounder of the modern

hospice movement

In closing, we encourage patients and their families to consider hospice when facing their last journey in life. The Hospice of Care Corp team gently offers experience, comfort and support. It is our honor to be with you and your family during this time.

For more information on Hospice of Care Corp or to begin hospice services, please call Care Corporation at 440.286.CARE (2273) or 888.227.3811.¬

August, 2011

To Jason Baker and everyone at Parkside Care Corporation,

We would like to thank you for sending our family the beautiful floral arrangement. Your kindness was generally appreciated.

We did not hesitate when they asked us who we would like for our hospice care and where donations should go to in loving memory. Everyone who came to our house from Hospice of Care Corp provided such kind and compassionate care; Marcia, Home Health Aide, Lindsay, Home Health Aide, Jen, PT, Kathy, RN, and Rebecca, RN, Troy, Medical Social Worker, were all amazing. We hope these donations will help you to continue to provide excellent care to your patients. Words cannot thank you enough for everything you did for my husband and our family!

May God bless you always.

Love, The “H” Family

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To the wonderful people at Care Corp,

We want to thank you all for the excellent care and kindness you gave Bob before his passing. He always looked forward to your visits and felt better afterwards. It meant so much to all of us.

Sincerely, Annette & Family

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The family of Alice,

Thanks for you and your kind expression of sympathy. Thank you for taking care of my mother and the flowers. We couldn’t have done it without you.

Rich & Donna

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To the Hospice Team at Care Corp,

Thank you for the care given Dad the final months of his life. It gave us great comfort to know he was getting the added attention. Special thanks to Margie, Joyce, Troy and to Rebecca for the final visit.

The “U” Family

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To the staff,

Thank you for your concern and expert advice and help when our mother Clara was so ill. We have great faith in our God, Jehovah, as she did. We believe in the time when she will be resurrected to a beautiful paradise earth where sickness, pain and death will be no more (Rev. 21:3,4)

Please accept this as our mother’s belief and ours. Thank you again for your tender care.

Cynthia & Family

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Sweets for the very kind and very sweet ladies who helped my mom and me at this difficult time. Thank you for all that you did both for me and my mother.

Charlene

831 South StreetChardon, Ohio 44024

Ph: 440.286.CARE (2273)www.carecorponline.com

PRESORTED STANDARDU.S. Postage

PAIDChardon, OHPermit No. 28

The Home Page is published quarterly for patients and friends of Care Corporation and residents of Geauga County over age 55. If you are interested in receiving this publication or information on the many services provided by Care Corporation, please call 286-CARE.

Jason Baker, President, CEO

Robert E. Evans, D.O., Medical Director

Produced by Write 2 the Point,(440) 285-2788 © 2011

Often, it is easier to take a trip to the mall and purchase a gift for a family member or friend for the holidays. However, the gift of time is often more precious, meaningful and rewarding for both the giver and receiver. Please consider giving the gift of time this holiday season by becoming a Care Corp volunteer?

Care Corporation is always looking for kind, compassionate individuals of all ages who would like to share whatever time they have available to brighten the day of a homebound senior. Many of our current volunteers enjoy spending their time reading a book, playing cards or even just sharing favorite memories with homebound seniors residing in Geauga County.

“During the holiday season, volunteers are needed to lend a hand by assisting in decorating the homes of local seniors, or taking a few hours to rake leaves, trim bushes, or otherwise winterize a home,” describes Judy Tvergyak, volunteer coordinator at Care Corp. “No matter what your age, talent or interest, you certainly have a gift that others would appreciate.”

If you would like to volunteer, please call Judy Tvergyak at 440.286.2273 or 888.227.3811.¬

The Gift of Giving

For those nervous about experiencing the upcoming holidays after experiencing the death of a loved one, Hospice of Care Corp, Burr Funeral Home & Cremation

Service, and A Season of Hope Counseling Center sponsored, Help for

the Holidays, on November 13.

The program offered tools to help individuals who have experienced a recent death of a friend or family

member cope with their grief during the upcoming holidays. All were welcome and admission was free. Community members heard ways to honor their

departed loved ones and experienced the support and compassion of others

engaged in the same struggle

This event is hosted each year. Please call 440.285.2182 for more details if you

would like to attend next year.¬

Individuals Find Help for the Holidays