Caregiver’s Plight with Grandparents Unveils Passion for Helping Others – Maribel’s Story

caregiver, senior care
Maribel Tobias-Ortiz, 20, has been named A Place at Home’s August Caregiver of the Month. She recently became a caregiver with A Place at Home a few months back, but in that time, she has gone above and beyond to give her clients the best care possible. “Maribel has only been with us for a couple of months and has already made a great impression with her clients. She is one of our top caregivers and we appreciate her being with A Place at Home,” said Nick Bohunis, Staffing Services Coordinator. Taking care of others isn’t something new for Maribel. From caring for her niece to assisting both of her grandpa’s during their end of life stages; she has always been passionate about helping those around her. One of Maribel’s grandparents battled with cancer for a few years, which ultimately led to him losing his eyesight, and eventually his life. Her other grandpa struggled with daily personal care, and while she did her best to help out, he ultimately took his own life after battling with depression for some time. While it was difficult to watch her grandparents health disintegrate, these experiences are what shaped her. It was these encounters which led her to unearth her life’s purpose. “I discovered my calling when I was a caregiver for both of my grandpa’s. It made me realize just how important the role of a caregiver truly is when someone is struggling to take care of themselves. I knew then that I wanted to pursue a career where I could have a genuine impact on the lives of others,” Maribel expressed. Maribel has found A Place at Home to be an incredible stepping stone to acquire the skills necessary for her future as a nurse. “Through their training and understanding, A Place at Home has armed me with the tools and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a nurse,” Maribel said. Her client, Tag, and his wife Susie are incredibly thankful to have Maribel as a caregiver. “She is proactive, passionate, reliable, and very positive. If anyone deserves it, she definitely deserves to be the caregiver of the month,” Tag’s wife, Susie said. Congratulations Maribel and thanks for always showing A Place at Home seniors the CARE they deserve.

A Place at Home: Trust Us for Compassionate Senior Care

At A Place at Home senior care, we know that our in-home caregivers make us great. Our careful hiring practices and high standards ensure that seniors receive compassionate, reliable assistance with the activities of daily life. Our senior support services are planned around elderly individuals’ specific needs – and designed to maintain their dignity and independence. A Place at Home caregivers genuinely enjoy caring for others. Together, we work to provide each senior the opportunity to live their best life. Apply now or contact us to inquire about becoming a caregiver with us.

Veterans Hope Restored During Battle With MS – Jeff’s Story

Over a year ago, veteran Jeff Wesson began experiencing the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis, a disabling disease of the central nervous system. His physical health quickly decelerated and he was soon unable to walk or move his arms.

“My body was completely stiff. I suddenly didn’t have control over my own body and I just felt completely helpless,” Wesson expressed. “I had dedicated my career to helping others and now I could barely help myself.”

According to WebMD, multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a long-lasting disease which disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. MS can cause problems with vision, balance, muscle control, and other basic body functions.

As his life was seemingly falling apart, Wesson found refuge in A Place at Home. “I couldn’t perform basic tasks, I needed consistent help and that’s when A Place at Home stepped in. They provided me with the care and support I needed to be able to stay home,” Wesson said.

Due to Wesson’s debilitating condition, he needed daily assistance but he quickly found himself trapped in a corner when he was unsure how he would continue to afford in-home care. “I absolutely loved the services I was receiving from A Place at Home, but I didn’t know how I was going pay for it all. It just wasn’t something I could sustain for very long without assistance.”

Wesson expressed his concerns with his caregiver, William Chamberlain (now Senior Service Coordinator), who is also a veteran. Having experienced disability himself, Chamberlain knew that Veteran Affairs could help pay for Wesson’s care.

This conversation spurred into A Place at Home’s Client Service Coordinator, Aubre Philips (now Director) reaching out to the MS Foundation and Veteran Affairs which ultimately led to grants and government assistance aiding Wesson in paying for his care.

“Aubre went above and beyond to help me out. I didn’t have to do anything. She just genuinely cared and she did everything she could to ensure I could continue to receive the care that I needed,” Wesson expressed with gratitude.

Since he was able to continue his care, Wesson made major progressions over a six-month time frame. “When we first got Jeff, he was unable to stand or walk – he couldn’t even move his arms,” Chamberlain exclaimed. “But through physical therapy, he not only regained movement in his arms, but, with assistance, he was able to walk again.”

While there is no cure for MS, treatment typically focuses on speeding recovery from attacks, slowing the progression of the disease and managing MS symptoms.

“They helped me achieve things I never thought I would be able to do again. Without A Place At Home, I wouldn’t be able to move the way I can now. They helped me get movement back, but more importantly, they restored my hope,” Wesson said.

A Place at Home is dedicated to providing a continuum of care for seniors across the nation. Our clients are more than clients – they are family. If you or a loved one need assistance, contact us today so that we can help ease the aging process.

2018 International Nurse Day

International Nurse Day 2018

Nurses are an integral part of our lives in general and here at A Place at Home, but often we don’t think about them until it’s an immediate need. In the moment of an emergency, we rely on nurses to care for us, answer questions, and provide us with compassionate care. How often are we thinking of our nurses outside of those emergency situations?

International Nurse Day – A Day to Celebrate all the great nurses in our lives

Sure, we thank them in the moment, but do they receive our thanks the rest of the year? May 12th is International Nurse Day; a reminder to show our appreciation for the care they provide. International Nurse Day became recognized by the White House in 1974; 21 years after the idea was initially proposed. The date of observance was chosen to commemorate Florence Nightingale’s birthday, the founder of modern nursing.

Nursing is of course a career that these professionals voluntarily chose, but what a compassionate profession to choose! It takes a special person to give their all to care for people every day, and these people deserve to be commended.

Here are some ways you can show your appreciation:

  1. A simple ‘Thank You’ goes a long way! Especially if it’s out of the blue
  2. Omaha business owner? Offer a discount for those hard-working nurses that use your services!
  3. Drop off Starbucks cards at your local hospital or nursing home for a little pick-me-up during the 12-hour shifts
  4. Crafty kids? Handmade crafts or drawings can put a smile on any nurse’s face
  5. Volunteer at your local senior care facility or nursing home. Have the residents make cookies and distribute to the nurses
  6. Send catered lunch to the hospital. Short on cash? Bring extra veggies from your garden for an afternoon shift break
  7. Don’t forget about nurses in home care; they deserve special thanks as well!

There are plenty ways to show these individuals your appreciation. For more info about International Nurse Day, visit www.nursingworld.org.

 

Caring – Top Prerequisites For Working in Senior Care

Caring - Top Prerequisites For Working in Senior Care

People who trust their loved one to A Place At Home senior care in Omaha can expect competent and compassionate care at all times. For individuals who are seeking Omaha caregiver jobs, you’ll find our positions very rewarding. That’s because we only hire dedicated, qualified caregivers–those who have a sincere passion for helping others. If you’re interested in caregiver jobs here in the Omaha area, look at our requirements to see if your personal values match. If so, you’ll be an excellent candidate for our caregiver jobs!

Why Seniors (and Caregivers) Trust A Place at Home Senior Care

We look for the following crucial traits in potential new-hire senior caregivers:

  • Authentic concern for other human beings: Our caregivers embrace diversity, caring for all people, especially seniors in their care, and celebrating their unique differences.
  • Supportive and encouraging attitude: Senior caregivers are perceptive and empathetic. They’re good listeners, willing to help each senior individual where needed, and willing to step back–to allow seniors the independence they’re capable of–and even help them increase their abilities.
  • Absolute dependability: Seniors needing care can rely upon our caregivers to arrive promptly on time, and to complete their supportive tasks meticulously. Since we help elderly people with crucial daily tasks like grooming and taking medicines, we take our responsibility seriously.
  • Calm, well-prepared and responsible: Our caregivers are ready for the unexpected. They realize every day will be different and are able to react when a change of plan is required to properly care for the elderly individual. If an emergency occurs –or if the senior simply wants to do something not on the typical schedule, such as go see a friend, our caregivers respond properly. Caregivers handle each situation to protect the senior’s physical/emotional health and well being.
  • Pleasantness and cheery demeanor: We strive to be a positive force in our seniors’ lives.

A Place at Home: Trust Us for Compassionate Senior Care

At A Place at Home senior care, we know that our in-home caregivers make us great. Our careful hiring practices and high standards ensure that seniors receive compassionate, reliable assistance with the activities of daily life. Our senior support services are planned around elderly individuals’ specific needs–and designed to maintain their dignity and independence. A Place at Home caregivers genuinely enjoy caring for others. Together, we work to provide each senior the opportunity to live their best life. Inquire about Omaha caregiver jobs here.

What Does it Take to Become a CNA or CMA?

For anyone interested in becoming a caregiver, the first step is to get a CNA license. This not only provides certification, but enables that caregiver to apply for jobs in many healthcare settings. Certification requires CNAs to complete at least 75 hours of state-approved training. In most classes, clinicals are used towards the end of the course to provide a hands-on experience. CNA classes in the Omaha area are comparable in price (usually around $400-450).

Obtaining a Medication Aide license goes a step further and enables that caregiver to pass medications in-home or in community settings. A 20-hour Med Aide certification allows you to pass meds in a home setting, while a 40-hour certification enables you to pass meds in a facility. The 40-hour certification is highly recommended in that it will allow you more options for placement and hours. CMA classes generally cost between $300-$350.

If your CNA or CMA license has lapsed or is inactive, refresher courses are available that will enable you to reactivate your licensure. Prices for these classes vary.

Classes for both CNA and CMA certification can be taken in the classroom or online, and prices vary based on the institution and course offerings and inclusions. Make sure to double check with your state requirements to assure that your program is state-certified.

Find the course that’s best for you and your career aspirations by following the links below.

CNA and CMA classes in the Omaha area

Nebraska Methodist College

  •             Four week on-campus program or six-week online hybrid program
  •             www.methodistcollege.edu

Quality CNA/CMA Classes

  •             76-hour course
  •             Payment plans available
  •             www.qualitycnacma.com

Metropolitan Community College

Clarkson College

Promise Healthcare Training Center

Midland University

Digging Through the Notes: Taking Care of One of Ours

Before I was in the home care business, my grandparents used home care.

It wasn’t until last week that I realized they used A Place at Home. While looking up my profile on our computer system, my mom’s name also came up, and that led me on a very rewarding search through records one afternoon.

My grandparents have both passed away, and the daily memories I get from them usually come in passing from the pictures I have on my refrigerator. Reading their care notes last week brought both joy and sadness, but the feeling that gave me the most comfort, was the Caregiver’s compassion shown to them evidenced by the careful recording of the notes.

The amazing thing is that, had I not known who these care notes were about, I’d bet money that they were about my grandparents. That’s how detailed APH’s caregivers are when it comes to caring for and documenting the care of our clients.

“R finished 25% of her dinner and 100% of her dessert.” 

“R went to bed at 9:00 but A stayed up to watch the baseball game in the den.”

“For breakfast, A had toast with orange marmalade.”

“R visited with friends and was on the phone most of the day.” 

These notes were totally my grandparents.

Another thing I appreciated, was reading the email communications between our CEO and my mom. He checked up on them often to make sure her parents were receiving top-notch quality care.

When talking to our CEO, Dustin, I mentioned finding my grandparents’ care notes in the system. Even though they were only clients for about three weeks, three years ago, Dustin remembered exactly who I was talking about. With the hundreds of clients APH serves, he was able to say with confidence that he remembered they lived in a two-bedroom apartment over on 90th and Western, that APH provided 24-hour care, and that R was a very sweet lady.

Those are truly caring qualities of a CEO and employees. As the recruitment specialist, I do a lot of Caregiver interviews. Many applicants are well-qualified.  But my deciding factor in hiring, is asking myself if I would put this applicant with my loved one.

I’m so glad to know that when my grandparents needed care, it was through A Place at Home; I wouldn’t have chosen any other company or Caregivers for that task.

– Leigh Chaves, A Place at Home Recruitment and Retention Specialist

How We Provide the Best Caregivers In Omaha

What does it take to become an A Place at Home Caregiver?

As many home care companies as there are around Omaha, what makes A Place at Home stand out from the rest? Maybe it’s that we’re locally owned; maybe it’s the CARE model (Compassionate, Accountable, Respectful, Ethical); maybe it’s our fabulous clients. Another reason APH stands out is that we’re a licensed company, and it’s not easy to become an APH Caregiver!

To become a part of our caregiving team, applicants first complete a phone interview. These include questions about why they wanted to become a Caregiver and what CARE means to them. During the face-to-face interview, the questions become more in-depth where we learn more about the applicant. It’s critical that we make sure they’re a good fit for us, and that we’re a good fit for them.

During the three-hour orientation, Caregivers learn all about APH from the company’s history, to our values, our processes, and more. They also complete a drug test, build a profile with the schedulers, and meet one-on-one with our RN, Denise. Building a Caregiver profile helps us accurately match Caregivers with clients, and meeting one-on-one with Denise in the skills lab ensures that they’re ready to provide the best care. Also, if at any time our Caregivers want to brush up on a skill, they’re welcome to come into the office and work in the skills lab and get their questions answered.

Lastly, we do background checks on all of our employees. Each Caregiver has passed a criminal background check as well as an Adult and Child Protective Services check for both Nebraska and Iowa. We also check public registries and their license(s) to make sure there have been no disciplinary actions.

Once our Caregivers complete everything, they’re ready to serve our wonderful clients. This process we go through sets us apart from other home care companies. A Place at Home takes pride in what we do, and part of that ensures we to provide the best, most qualified Caregivers out there.

– Leigh Chaves, A Place at Home Recruitment and Retention Specialist

Here’s to Positive Feedback!

We love hearing about how our clients and families feel about the care they receive from our A Place at Home team.

And while we believe that our Caregivers are the best, it feels great to hear it directly from our clients.  Here are some recent testimonials that we’d like to share.

Peace of mind

I finally have peace of mind knowing I have excellent in-home care from APH helping my 90yr old mom, Genevieve, with dressing, meals, baths and general companionship. APH makes it possible for my mom to remain at home, feeling safe and secure and enjoying the quality of life she deserves. I’m also extremely thankful for the Veteran’s Benefit hours my mom receives that Chris Cummings introduced to us. Thank you APH! – Betty M.

Putting needs first and foremost

I had tried several agencies and was about to give up on finding care for my mother when I found A Place At Home.  I gave them a try and it has been a very successful experience.  The Caregiver is very involved and caring, putting my mother’s interests and needs first and foremost.  Everyone in the company has been genuinely involved and goes the extra yard to make sure anything and everything regarding my mother is taken care of and cared for.  No matter the concern, however trite or huge, the staff works diligently to solve the situation and make certain that my mother (and I) are satisfied with the results and the services.  This company is truly client oriented. – Lisa V.

Feels good to be safe

We look forward to your constant care that we receive. It feels good to be safe. – The B**** Family

Thank you to all the families that we are allowed to care for.  If  we’ve made a positive impact on one of your loved ones, let us know! A Place at Home is proud to practice our “We are CARE” philosophy every day in everything we do.  CARE is Compassionate, Accountable, Respectful and Ethical.

Why We Love our Caregivers

Something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately is how our A Place at Home Caregivers are so much more than CNAs or CMAs to our clients. They do so much more than provide cares, clean up messes, or run errands.

Our Caregivers are friends. A friendly smile in someone’s possibly lonely day. A light in someone’s life. A caring person who genuinely loves their client.

Recently I posed a question to our Caregivers asking for a special moment they’ve had with our clients that didn’t include providing cares. The responses came pouring in:

“I say prayers with my clients at bedtime.”

“I cooked my favorite breakfast for him and he loved it.”

“We went to garage sales and Goodwill and he (client) had such a good time. Couldn’t stop laughing and smiling.”

“Sometimes we just stare at each other and bust up laughing.”

“I was told by a client that I’m his best friend.”

Most of the responses I received ended with, “this is why I love my job!”  It takes a very special person to be a Caregiver, and we’re so lucky to have those kinds of employees on our APH team.

I interviewed a young woman yesterday who recently received her CNA license. She could not stop smiling. She was so excited for the opportunity to interview for the position. She told stories about people she has cared for in the past, and her passion shone through her voice. Her smile wouldn’t quit.

We’re so proud to have these Caregivers on our staff and the next time you see one of our team members, thank them. Thank them for providing such great above-and-beyond care for your loved ones.

I’m happy to say that the highlight of my day today will be calling that young woman and offering her a spot on the APH team. I’ll be just as excited as she will.

Leigh Chaves is A Place at Home’s Recruitment and Retention Specialist. This means that Leigh spends her days hiring and keeping our Caregivers happy.  She is on the front line of making sure we hire qualified, passionate and caring people to take care of our clients. This month, she reflects on how important our Caregivers are in the lives of those we care for.