October 1, 2008 Newsletter

Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association
Volume II Issue 4 http://scdcwa.blogspot.com/ October 2008

Which came first--The Chicken or the Egg?????
Which came first, the chicken or the egg? This question has baffled scientists, academics and pub bores throughout the ages. In the case of direct care workers, do we demand better pay and benefits before we provide better care or do we provide better care so we will deserve better pay and benefits? While there is agreement that there are a lot of adverse issues affecting direct care workers, there is no consensus among policy makers in Harrisburg or Washington on how to fix things now. The Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association is here to help address all of the issues we face every day and to work toward instilling a positive work ethic and better quality of care regardless of what other entities do on our behalf. This newsletter is intended to keep members informed of what is going on legislatively as well as to provide educational opportunities that you can participate in now that will enable you to provide better care to your consumers. Working together and having a unified voice, every direct care worker has the opportunity to be part of the solution to the long term care crisis this state is facing. Help us be part of the solution. Please email scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com to be added to our email list.

Protect yourself from the Flu!
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are a number of simple things you can do to protect yourself fro the flu even if you don’t get the flue vaccination this year. These simple actions can help stop the spread of germs and help protect you and others from getting sick.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Discard used tissues immediately into a garbage can. Don’t use your hands to stifle a cough/sneeze! Remember, your hands carry many germs and using your hand to cover your mouth can result in more infections.
Clean you hands! Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his/her eyes, nose or mouth.
Eat regular well balanced meals (6-9 servings of fruits and veggies daily; exercise (30 minutes at least 4 times a week) and get plenty of sleep (8 hours every night) and take a multivitamin.
See your dentist. Low grade infections, such as chronic gum disease, can make you more susceptible to the flu.
Quit smoking. Research studies show an increase in flue infections among smokers compared to non smokers. There is also a higher death rate from the flu for smokers.

Penny Wise
Washing hands regularly costs less than a penny, which can prevent a $50 or more office visit to the doctor to merely diagnose an infectious disease you contract!

Guitar Auction
Here we go again! The Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association has obtained a guitar autographed by Tracii Guns! Tracii was a member of the famous band “Guns & Roses” with Axel Rose as well as many other bands throughout the years. He is the founder of L.A. Guns, the band he presently is playing with. The guitar was signed by Tracii and two other band members after their performance at Goodfella’s Café on August 9, 2008. The guitar will be put up for auction on eBay in October so pass this information along and help the SCDCWA earn some cash for programs!

New Consulting Service for Seniors
Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc. was created in the spring of 2007 to address the needs of seniors and their loved ones. During the aging process, life can bring about many difficult situations including financial, medical, personal, social and much more.
Often people don’t know where to turn, need extra support, or an objective friendly professional to help them feel confident they make the best decision for themselves. Spectrum will not only help clients gather information, but also make sure clients understand the sometimes complicated, confusing information. In that regard, Spectrum will refer other quality businesses so seniors know there are organizations available t help them.
We also help seniors find out if there is any financial assistance available. This includes helping them fill out applications if necessary.
Often, our seniors have no loved ones available to support them. Maybe family is not local, or there are no close friends of family. Spectrum can help with check book management and other personal management issues. We can also act as Power of Attorney. We have teamed up with Good News Consulting, Inc., a professional guardianship and care management company, to bring those services to our local seniors as well.
Spectrum was founded by Kimberly S. Noel. While doing nursing home admissions for eight years, Kim saw many seniors and their families were completely overwhelmed and not sure where to go to ease their minds. Now there is an organization to address those needs.
You can contact Kim at Spectrum by calling (570) 668-0368. The toll free number is (866) 202-1424. The pin number is 1608.

Pick-A-Ticket Auction
Covenant Home Care is hosting “the original” Pick-a-Ticket Auction on Sunday, November 9, 2008. Saturday, November 8. Browse and bid from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday November 9, 2008. Doors open at 12:00 noon. Auction begins at 2:00 p.m. Featuring ethnic foods. All proceeds benefit the Hospice Program of Covenant Home Care. The auction will take place at Saint Ambrose Parish Center on Randel Street in Schuylkill Haven. Donations are welcomed. Monetary donations, gift certificates for services/items, gift baskets, specialty baskets, new toys, antiques, collectibles, sports or other memorabilia, decorative items, handmade items, craft items…more! Browse and bid: 6pm-8pm on Saturday, November 8, 2008. Doors open at 12 noon on Sunday, November 9, 2008. Auction begins at 2pm. Donations welcomed! Monetary donations, gift certificates for services/items, gift baskets, specialty baskets, new toys, antiques, collectibles, sports or other memorabilia, decorative items handmade items craft items….more! Ethnic foods will be available for purchase. Proceeds benefit the Hospice Program of Covenant Home Care. Please contact Covenant Home Care for information 385-5222.

QuietCare
Mom says she’s fine at home. With QuietCare, you know she is! QuietCare alerts you in case of an emergency and gives you notification of potential health problems before they become emergencies. You get the right information to provide the right care at the right time. QuiteCare uses a series of activity sensors to learn Mom’s normal health behaviors and conditions 24/7. Wake up time, potential bathroom fall, medication usage, meal preparation, sleep habits, bathroom usage, household temperature. Activity sensors are small and wireless and are strategically placed throughout the house. Mom’s activities are automatically reported over the phone line via a toll free connection and are analyzed on QuietCare’s computers. Changes in the senior’s activities are analyzed so caregivers can be alerted to problems by call center professionals, or via e-mail, cell phone, text message or pager or by checking a password protected web site. What makes QuietCare unique is that it “learns” each individual’s normal behavioral patterns and notes any significant changes from them. And because it doesn’t require the elderly person to wear anything or push anything, it can summon help even when they can’t. Besides alerting caregivers in emergency situations, the QuietCare system gives caregivers insights in to emerging conditions before they become problems. This system can be accessed by anyone the consumer designates via online access with password protection--including providers and family members thousands of miles away. For more information on this affordable way to have peace of mind for your consumers 24/7 call Lori’s Angels at 1-877-264-3505. (Installation and monitoring fees covered by Waiver programs)
Early detection + Early warning = Better allocation of resources + better care


SCDCWA Recruitment Event
The Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association is hosting a DCW Recruitment Event on Thursday, November 6th from 10am to 4pm at the Fairlane Village Mall. Tables are available on a first come first serve basis for employers for the small fee of $20. This charge is to cover advertising costs associated with the event. Come out and let prospective employees and consumers know what services you provide and what career opportunities you offer. Plans are also underway to provide some basic education for prospective employees on topics such as safe lifting and transferring, how to care for oxygen equipment, introduction to hospice care etc. Anyone interested in participating as a prospective employer or being a presenter is requested to contact Lori at Lori’s Angels before October 15th so that we can set an agenda for the event. (570) 385-8450. At the end of this newsletter is a “Hold Harmless” form from the mall that must be filled out, signed and returned to Lori at 223 Route 61 South, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972 by October 27th along with the $20 fee to complete your registration. We look forward to a successful event and great networking!

Quote: When you rob Peter to pay Paul, the only one not complaining is Paul!

Advocacy Corner
Ban on Mandatory Overtime Legislation headed for passage
The Senate Labor and Industry Committee unanimously approved the House passed measure, after adding a compromise amendment providing some exceptions, to ban mandatory overtime for nurses and nursing assistants. The bill appears to be headed to final passage during the last few remaining days of this legislative session. The bill does allow nurses and nursing assistants to volunteer for overtime at all health care facilities but bans disciplinary action against those who choose not to work overtime. The compromise defines an emergency as a terrorist act, natural disaster, widespread disease outbreak or extraordinary and unpredictable event that increases the need for health services. Overtime could still be mandated if patient safety is at issue. The bill will stop the use of mandatory overtime as a tool to deal with staff shortages. Supporters say the ban will reduce medical errors, persuade nurses who left the profession to renew their licenses and encourage young people to become nurses. The health care industry is concerned that a ban would leave them short-staffed during unforeseen emergencies.

DCW Training Subcommittee
The PA Center for Health Careers DCW Training Subcommittee has been working on a plan to ensure that all direct care workers have the basic skills and knowledge necessary to perform entry level work as a direct care worker in all settings that employ direct care workers. Last spring, the SCDCWA was given an opportunity to comment on the proposed training plan. The committee continues to discuss issues such as what workers should be included in the training program, what topics need to be included in the basic curriculum, length of the program, how it can interface with CNA certification/LPN/RN programs, who can teach the program, how a program would be compliant with current state/federal regulations, etc. At the August meeting, Ms. Sheri Weidman from the Dept. of Education announced the DOE’s fast tracked initiative to increase the number of required hours of training for CNAs from 75 hours to 120 hours. Current CNAs that participated in a program of less than 120 hours will be grand mothered.

Healthcare Initiatives
The Schuylkill Healthcare ACTION group, which includes Debbie Kramer (Addus Healthcare) and Lori Michael (Lori’s Angels) as well as other concerned citizens and organizations, met with Senator Rhoades early in September regarding health care legislation that is being discussed by Senate and House leadership. The group urged Senator Rhoades to work with his party to come to a bipartisan agreement that would start to address the problem of unaffordable health insurance for working Pennsylvanians. Below is a summary of the requests made to the Senator by the group.

Legislative Priorities for Health Care Reform as proposed by Schuylkill Healthcare ACTION
Health Care Reform is a significant issue that needs to be addressed by the Pennsylvania State Legislature. While the legislature is considering specific bills that vary in content and extent, Schuylkill Healthcare Action would like you to consider the following points that we feel are imperative for a sustainable piece of legislation that, while it may not solve the issue of complete coverage, it will bring us closer to an ideal healthcare policy.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE AND NEED
Provide financial incentives for small business owners to provide employee coverage by using “community rating” to assess risk and “rate bands” when setting premiums.
Address the working poor, and in particular direct care workers and those who are low wage earners with unstable hours but are in much and ever increasing demand, in particular those who do not always work the traditional 35 to 40 hour per week schedule.
Address reimbursements paid to medical providers, in particular dentists, whose costs exceed the reimbursement rate, as well as fee schedules paid to home health care workers.
Allow for tax credits to medical providers that offer services at discounted rates. This would encourage medical providers to participate in health care programs such as Medical Assistance, Medicare, adultBasic, and programs like the Schuylkill Alliance.
Allowing DCW’s to obtain health insurance through the state would allow them to continue to work for agencies or the consumer hire program and not have to increase the reimbursement rates paid through MA for those services.
Because of the direct correlation between mental and physical health, and dental and physical health, these aspects need to added to any bill and considered for coverage.
Bring adultBasic up-to-date so that it will qualify for federal funding. This means adding prescription drug and behavioral health coverage.
Expand adultBasic so many more of the uninsured can purchase coverage.
Fund the expansion of primary care to include dental in adultBasic.

9/17/08 PHAN Press Conference in the Capital Rotunda
Lori Michael was invited to speak at a press conference in the Capital Rotunda sponsored by the PA Health Access Network. The press conference was held to let our State Senators and Representatives know that access to affordable health insurance needs to happen now—not in 2 years. Lori Michael spoke about the need for government assistance with health care for direct care workers in order to keep incumbent workers and attract new workers to the expanding field of home care. Lori reminded her that Pennsylvania has made a commitment to rebalance the long term care system allowing individuals the choice to remain at home as they age. Assistance with affordable health insurance for those who will be caring for those Pennsylvanians is essential in maintaining a quality consistent workforce for our elderly and disabled consumers. After the press conference, Lori was able to speak with the chief of staff for Senator Charles T. McIlhinney Jr. (R-Parts of Bucks & Montgomery).
The SCDCWA urges everyone to contact their State Representatives and Senators asking them to support a bipartisan agreement that would expand affordable health care for working Pennsylvanians now. A great website for information on this topic is http://www.insurepanwo.org/ Thank you for supporting direct care workers!

PA AdultBasic
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania presently offers health insurance coverage to eligible low income Pennsylvanians under the program PA AdultBasic. While there is an 18 to 24 month waiting list for coverage, eligible individuals are encouraged to apply for the program anyway. Getting on the waiting list will help reinforce the need for our government to allocate additional funding for the program. The sooner an individual applies, the sooner they will be able to get health insurance coverage. For information on how to apply please call 1-800-GO BASIC. Applications can also be filled out on line at http://www.humanservices.state.pa.us/compass/CMHOM.aspx

Schuylkill Alliance for Healthcare Access
The Schuylkill Alliance for Health Care Access is a private non-profit organization that provides a vital link between Schuylkill County residents in need of greater access to healthcare and healthcare providers who are willing to help anyone struggling with affordability issues. According to the Schuylkill County Health Care Needs Assessment done in 2003, 33% or 50,000 residents of the County are uninsured, underinsured or lack access to health care. The Alliance programs include:
Pharmacy Program: We offer a free referral service that provides information for affordable and no-cost medicines for those who qualify.
Health Care Referral: We provide links to healthcare practitioners and providers who offer affordable services to those with limited funds.
Health Insurance Links: for those who are interested in obtaining medical insurance, we offer general information on various public plans and provide links to public assistance and other government programs. We also offer support with the registration process. Information on private health insurance programs is also available for those who do not qualify for public programs.
For more information on the services available contact the Alliance at 628-5515 or 1-877-628-5515
http://www.schuylkillhca.org/

Intergovernmental Agreement creating the Quality Home Care Commission
The Dept of Labor and Industry has proposed an Intergovernmental Agreement to establish a Quality Home Care Commission. The Dept of Public Welfare and the Dept of Aging were not involved in its development. Consumers, providers and other stakeholders were likewise not involved. Proponents of this Commission argue that without it, consumers will go without services and direct care workers will have poor pay and no benefits. The Commission would be a new quasi-government entity and registry for all consumer hire direct care workers. Workers would be required to work through the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and pay dues to the union. The Commission would maintain the registry, criminal background checks, training records, etc for DCWs (as home care agencies presently do) and provide DCWs with information on consumers in need of services. If you are interested in additional information about this proposal, please send an email request to scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com

R.E.A.L. Coallition Response
Harrisburg – (September 25, 2008) – A coalition of home and community-based providers today strongly criticized a proposal under consideration by Acting Secretary of Labor and Industry Sandi Vito that could require workers who provide in-home care to seniors and individuals with disabilities to join a state-funded registry called the Consumer Workforce Council. “Having what is in essence a state-operated homecare agency would be redundant and a very unnecessary expense for Pennsylvania taxpayers. There is already an expansive home and community-based provider network in the commonwealth. There are nearly 800 homecare agencies caring for thousands of our elderly and individuals with disabilities every day,” said Vicki Hoak, executive director of the Pennsylvania Homecare Association, whose organization is a member of the Coalition for REAL (Respected, Empowered, Accessible and Loyal) Home and Community-Based Services.
“While we agree that direct care workers need better pay and health care benefits, we disagree with this proposal to achieve that, especially in light of our state’s present financial climate. There are many other ways – for example, yearly cost of living adjustments – to ensure that direct care workers have better wages and benefits. “If our state government truly wants to increase the wages and benefits of direct care workers, it must increase the reimbursement for these vital services,” Hoak said.
The REAL Coalition opposes the proposed Council concept in part because it would create a new level of bureaucracy. While there are similar public authorities operating in a handful of states, including California and Washington, Hoak emphasized that those states’ programs and provider networks were not as extensive and sophisticated at the time their authorities were created as Pennsylvania’s are now. “We do not have an access problem. Consumers have a variety of options when it comes to getting in-home care. They can choose from the 800 existing homecare and attendant care providers in the state, or they can hire their own direct care worker, such as a friend or family member,” explained Hoak. “Creating this Council would only add additional costs to a system that is already seriously under-funded.”
Other organizations in the REAL Coalition include the Pennsylvania Association of Area Agencies on Aging, the National Private Duty Association and the Pennsylvania Providers Coalition Association.
Deborah Yacobozzi, attendant care program manager with Community Resources for Independence in Erie, said this proposal would take away consumer control. “Consumers could be forced to have the direct care workers they employ join the Council, which officials have already implied would eventually become a union. We don’t need another bureaucracy; what we do need are more funds earmarked to help people remain in their own homes.”
Additional information on the Coalition for REAL Home and Community-Based Services in Pennsylvania can be found at http://www.realinhomecarepa.com/

On the Lighter Side: THE LADIES
Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades. Over the years, they had shared all kinds of activities and adventures. Lately, their activities had been limited to meeting a few times a week to play cards. One day, they were playing cards when one looked at the other and said, "Now don't get mad at me, I know we've been friends for a long time, but I just can't think of your name! I've thought and thought, but I can't remember it. Please tell me what your name is."
Her friend glared at her. For at least three minutes she just stared and glared at her. Finally she said, "How soon do you need to know?"

Training Opportunities!
Home Care Volunteer Training
Covenant Hospice is hosting a training session for individuals interested in volunteering to support terminally ill patients and their families. The training session will be held on October 9th, 2008 from 9:30 am to 4 pm at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 94 Walnut Road, Hamburg, PA. Refreshments and lunch are included. Covenant is also seeking clerical, community education and fund-raising volunteers. If you are interested, please call Julia Sophy RN, MSN at 570-385-5222 or 1-800-726-8761 for Schuylkill County opportunities; Vince Chiles, LCSW at 610-779-6432 or 1-800-300-3007 for Berks County. Covenant Home Care…bringing skilled compassionate care home.

Schuylkill Medical Center South Jackson (Pottsville Hospital)
Enter a healing environment filled with positive and soothing energy...The Pottsville Hospital and Warne Clinic Wellness Program for Cancer Survivors and their care givers (you are a survivor the moment you are diagnosed with cancer)
GENTLE YOGA
Instructor: Michele D'Agostino, Kripalu Yoga Teacher
Friday evening* 6:00PM-7:00PM School of Nursing Building Multi Purpose Room, 450 Washington Street, Pottsville. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat, towel, blanket, and/or pillow. Program is free of charge for survivors; $5.00 for care givers. Partially funded by Courageous Chic Creations. For more information, please call Debbie Herb at 621-5047. *Classes will be held every Friday except for the following: October 3, November 7, November 28, December 12, and December 26
Chemo-Connect Support Group
The Chemo-Connect Support Group is open to recently diagnosed cancer patients as well as long term survivors and family members. This support group provides confidential, mutual support and experience sharing. The Chemo-Connect Support Group meets the third Thursday of each month at 6:00 P.M. in Conference Room A of the Main Hospital Building. For additional information, please contact Deb Herb at (570) 621-5047. Additional Dates for 2008: 10/20, 12/18

Breast Cancer Awareness
October 15, 2008 at 6pm South Jackson Street Campus—Medical Conference Rooms A&B
Speaker: Dr. Marylou Rainone, Rainone General Surgery. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Join our CHAT as Dr. Rainone leads the discussion on Breast Cancer Awareness. This is a FREE program and healthy snacks will be served. For more information please call Deb Herb at 621-5047

Schuylkill Rehab (now part of Schuylkill Medical Center)
Stroke Support Group
Meeting date Oct. 3, 2008 at 12 noon (11/7/08 & 12/5/08)
Join fellow stroke support group participants at the Schuylkill Rehabilitation Center for our monthly meeting to discuss you thoughts, feelings and concerns regarding how stroke has affected you and your circle of family and friends.

Fibromyalgia/MS/Chronic Pain Support Group
Meeting date: Oct 3, 2008 at 6pm (11/7/08 & 12/5/08)
Join fellow Fibromyalgia/MS/Chronic Pain Support Group participants at the Schuylkill Rehabilitation Center for our monthly meeting to discuss your thoughts, feelings and concerns regarding how Fibromyalgia/MS/Chronic Pain has affected you and your circle of family and friends

Anthracite Brain Injury Support Group
Meeting date Oct. 10, 2008 at 6pm (11.14.08 & 12/19/08)
The Anthracite Area Brain Injury Support Group was organized for individuals with brain injuries, their families, their friends, and other interested individuals, as a way to develop a supportive group network and to advocate for increased awareness of the needs of persons with brain injuries.

Amputee Support Group
Meeting date: Oct 14, 2008 at 6pm (11/21/08 & 12/19/08)
Share your experiences whether you are someone with an amputation or a family member/friend. We need everyone’s support to help make this group successful.

Walk-Aide Newest Technology for Foot Drop
Meeting date: Oct. 14, 2008 at 6:30pm
Join Kris Robertson, Certified Orthotist and Jen Herndon, LPT to learn about one of the newest treatments for foot drop that employs Myo-Orthotics Technology. The Walk-Aide is designed to stimulate the typical nerve-to-muscle signals in the leg and foot which cause the foot to lift at the appropriate tie in the walking cycle.

Exercise for Seniors
Meeting date: Oct. 21, 2008 at 6pm
Join Michelle Hendricks, PTA on October 21, 2008 at 6pm to learn how a daily exercise routine and a healthy diet can improve the overall quality of your life

Bell’s Palsy and The Role of Physical Therapy
Meeting date: Nov. 25, 2008 at 6:30pm
Join Marianne Schaeffer, PTA and Sue Schuettler, Speech Therapist on Nov. 25 to learn how treatment modalities may be used to assist you with your recovery.

Learn How Our Workinetics Dept. Can Help YOU Return to Work
Meeting date: Dec. 9, 2008 at 6pm
Join Lauren Shandor, ORT/L to lean about programs offered that can transition employees back to work safely, develop safe job performance to prevent re-injury and to reinforce proper body mechanics at the workplace.
For additional information on these programs or directions to the center please contact Schuylkill Rehab at 621-9500

Alzheimer’s Support Group
Please join Providence Place and Manor Care at their Alzheimer’s Support Group meetings. This group meets monthly alternating meeting locations each month. The next meeting is at Providence Place October 21st where Dr. Chawlick will be speaking about Alzheimer’s/Parkinson’s disease. The next meeting will be at Manor Care Nov 18th. There is no meeting in December. All meetings start at 5pm. If you would like to join everyone for dinner, please pre-register for the program. Anyone interested is welcome to attend. Please contact Providence Place at 628-6950 or Manor Care at 622-9582 if you would like more information or to register for the meeting.

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
Will be held every second Friday of the month. For more information & to pre-register, call Schuylkill Medical Center East Norwegian (Good Samaritan) 570-621-4572.
This support group is for people with Parkinson's disease and their loved ones. Parkinson's is a life altering illness. Come join others, learn, broaden your circle of friends, help others and just be yourself. This is a non-formal opportunity to share experiences, explore your community, feel better, and enjoy each other's company. Refreshments and free parking will be available.

Type 2 Diabetes Support Group
Will be held the first Thursday of the month, 6:00 pm. For more information & to pre-register, call 570-621-4572. Monthly meetings alternate between Good Samaritan and Pottsville Hospitals. Educational topics will be presented. Light refreshments will be served. Dates/Locations: October 2 - Good Samaritan, November 6 - Pottsville Hospital, December 4 - Good Samaritan

Free Publicity For Your Organization’s Community Education Programs
The SCDCWA is looking to advertise free training and education programs as well as support groups that would be of interest to direct care workers. Any agency or facility that offers educational programs is asked to contact scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com to be included in the next quarterly edition of this newsletter!

Fundraising for the SCDCWA
As everyone knows, nothing in this life is free. The SCDCWA is in need of funding to help offset the costs of the programs we are trying to provide. While those working on behalf of the Association are not paid, we do have expenses that must be covered. Our biggest expense is ADVERTISING! Below are some opportunities for individuals &/or businesses to help support the Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association. Please contact us for information about deducting monetary donations on your taxes! All fundraising programs at this time are managed through Lori’s Angels at 1-877-264-3505 or scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com
Reflective Address Markers
The Association is selling the green reflective address markers for $20 each. The markers are life savers when emergency response providers need to find your home fast. Signs are made up for each individual to post at their driveway or roadside mailbox to make their home easily identifiable, especially at night! These signs also help direct care workers locate the homes of new clients!

Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association, Inc.
The Vision
Honoring, Valuing, Respecting and Training the Direct Caregiver, thus assuring that people who need care are treated with Skill, Dignity, and Compassion
Our Mission
To increase the number of trained, qualified Direct Caregivers to care for elders and disabled individuals and to decrease turnover rates.
The focus of the Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association is to:
Provide quality educational opportunities for workers within the county.
Provide for monthly meetings where paid caregivers can receive the same type of support and information that unpaid and family members receive through various programs.
Promote Direct Care positions as a worthwhile respectable profession for prospective workers.
Publish a newsletter aimed at providing Direct Care Workers with information affecting their positions—such as new techniques or advancements, legislative changes, tips on performing their jobs better, promoting professionalism and promoting educational opportunities.
Advocate for direct care workers, providers and consumers on legislative issues affecting the profession.
Some day many of us will be in need of the services of a Direct Care Worker at home, in a facility or for a loved one. Our hope is that when that day comes, a caring, educated professional will be the person providing for our needs. Please join our group and work with us to achieve our goals.

To be added to (or removed from) our email list please contact scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com
Next meeting: Wednesday, October 15 @ 8am Lori’s Angels, 223 Route 61 South, Schuylkill Haven Please RSVP your attendance plans 570-385-8450 or 1-877-265-3505

July 1, 2008 Newsletter

Guitar Auction
Our first autographed guitar auction brought in $400.00 giving us a profit of $256.90! The guitar, autographed by Bret Michaels (lead singer of Poison) on May 3rd during his visit to Goodfellas, was posted on Ebay for 10 days. The winner was a Pottsville resident who purchased the guitar as a gift. The SCDCWA is planning several more guitar auctions with another guitar signed by Bret Michaels, one signed by the band Cinderella and others. Notice of the Ebay auctions will be sent via email to everyone on our mailing list so sign up now so you won’t miss the opportunity to bid. Watch our newsletters, blog and Ebay also to find out when these auctions will take place.

Defining Excellence Conference
Thank you to everyone who participated in and attended our May 1st Defining Excellence Conference at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center’s Wall Auditorium. The event was a great success with many educational opportunities for our DCWs. By all accounts everyone enjoyed the day and took home a wealth of knowledge that they can share in their everyday work with consumers. This is a start to bringing quality and professionalism to our field of work. Thank you to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center for use of the Auditorium and for the breakfast and lunch provided. Thank you to our presenters: Julie Sophy RN, Covenant Hospice; Lloyd Wertz, Good Sam Behavioral Health; Lori Stbeinart RN, Pottsville Hospital Cardiac Unit; Kathy Couch, AHEDD; Kim Noel, Senior Spectrum Consultants; Phoenix Rehab, Frackville; Janet Hooper; Nancy Pauzer; Tracy Lawless; Simone Baer and Roy Gedat for their presentations, Wasserot’s (medical equip) for their display and to Estelle Richmond, Secretary for the PA Department of Welfare for being our keynote speaker. Thank you to Aaron North, Addus Healthcare and Lori’s Angels for selling Joe Corbi Pizza to help pay for the event as well! Anyone interested in helping to plan and organize next year’s conference, please contact Lori Michael at Lori’s Angels 1-877-264-3505 or email scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com

Upcoming SCDCWA Plans
The Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association would like to do a recruitment fair in the fall. All employers of direct care workers—in health care or human services, are invited to participate. Our vision is to provide employment opportunities as well as community support options for those interested in pursuing employment. Anyone interested in participating in this event or in helping to plan this event is encouraged to contact Lori. We are planning workshops on childcare programs, car care, job readiness skills and budgeting as well as some basic direct care worker skills with workshops such as standard precautions, and confidentiality. Anyone willing to volunteer their time to be a presenter is welcome. Please email Lori at scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com or call 1-877-264-3505.

Higher Gas Prices Cause Hardship
In 2003, gas was selling for $1.35 per gallon. Today it is averaging $4 per gallon with predictions of $7 per gallon by the end of summer. The high cost of getting to work is only the tip of the ice burg in this oil crisis. While it is becoming more burdensome to get to work each day, the cost of every day basic needs is also increasing. The price of food, utilities, and clothing— just about every material thing is tied to the cost of oil! The cost of services however is not. The cost of services has not increase sufficiently to allow for adequate raises to workers to offset the increase cost of living. Conservation—where ever possible, is necessary to survive in our new economy.

Here are some tips to help make your dollars stretch:
Turn off the lights. If you don’t need the light on, keep it off. Even the Queen of England is doing this!
Turn down the heat and up the A/C. Two degrees cooler in winter or warmer in summer results in significant cost savings
Replace burnt out light bulbs with energy efficient ones (they cost more initially but last longer).
Tune up your vehicle. A well maintained vehicle uses less gas.
Buy your gas 3 days before a holiday—before the price increases.
Buy heating oil in the summer when demand is down and so are the prices. Lock in if you can.
Plan your trips to save gas and your time. Shop for everything at once and don’t go to the store every day.
Shop when you are in the area. If you leave work and pass the grocery store, stop then. Don’t go home then drive back to the store.
Shop at farmers markets whenever possible. The prices are better and the food usually fresher.
Shop the perimeter of the grocery store for most of your grocery needs. Stay away from high priced (and usually calorie and salt laden) processed food products that you don’t really need anyway that cost a lot.
Limit fast food purchases. A cup of coffee is much cheaper to brew at home than to stop at a drive through. Pack your lunch. It is healthier and saves you money.
Car pool whenever possible.
Keep track of your spending and look at cutting unnecessary or impulse purchases.
Discontinue premium TV channels that you don’t watch; cut telephone options that you don’t have to have such as call waiting or caller ID. Consider dropping your landline if you only use your cell. Contact Verizon for help with your basic phone bill. They have a program that assists low income individuals with basic telephone services.
Instead of going to the mall or WalMart for something to do, consider a walk or bike ride. It saves you money and is good for your health.
Don’t let the TV tell you or your children what you “must have”. Make smart choices with your spending so that you will have the money you need for what you really want.
Just a thought but most “millionaires” in this country started out as ordinary working people making the same choices suggested above to save money that enabled them to become millionaires!

Advocacy Corner
A lot has been going on in Harrisburg lately. Congress has been working on a budget and everyone is asking for a piece of the pie. One of the issues with a significant impact on Direct Care Workers is Senate Bill 1137. This bill will provide low cost health insurance to approximately 350,000 uninsured Pennsylvanians. While it does not mandate employer or employee participation, it is a great start. Workers in PA that do not have health insurance will be able to purchase the State’s plan. Premiums are based on income and would range from $35 per month to a maximum of $150.00. We urge all Direct Care Workers to contact their legislative representatives to encourage them to address the issue of lack of affordable health insurance and get this bill passed!

Nine common myths about the uninsured.
Myth #1: If you don’t have insurance, you can always just go to the emergency room.
Here are the facts:
· Hospitals in Pennsylvania are not required to treat someone without health insurance. Hospitals in Pennsylvania can and do turn away people who are uninsured.
· The law only requires a hospital to “stabilize” a person who is having an emergency.
· People with chronic disease or disability can be denied care if they are not in an acute or life-threatening situation.
Myth #2: Anyone who is poor can access health care through Medical Assistance.
Here are the facts:
· Many low-income Pennsylvanians do not qualify for Medical Assistance (MA).
· MA primarily helps very low-income children and their custodial parents, pregnant women, and elderly, blind or disabled adults with incomes of less than $867 per month.
Myth #3: Only the unemployed and part-time employed are uninsured.
Here are the facts:
· 70 percent of the uninsured in Pennsylvania are employed, 44 percent full-time.
Myth #4: The disabled can get health insurance through the federal government.
Here are the facts:
· Many people with disabilities do not qualify for government programs.
· People who do qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) must wait two years before they can receive Medicare coverage.
· If their incomes are very low ($867 per month in 2008), they might be eligible for MA. But having an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) with more than $2,000 is disqualifying.
Myth #5: College students and young adults can get insurance through their parents.
Here are the facts:
· Coverage for children is completely dependent on the health insurance policy the parent has purchased.
· Some policies have a strict age limit (e.g., age 21) and most policies require that young adults over age 18 be in school full-time to be covered.
Myth #6: Everyone on Social Security retirement is eligible for Medicare.
Here are the facts:
· While seniors can begin to receive Social Security retirement benefits at age 62, they are not eligible for Medicare until age 65.
Myth #7: People who lose their jobs can keep health insurance for at least 18 months through COBRA.
Here are the facts:
· COBRA only applies if a person was working for an employer with at least 20 employees.
· Even if COBRA rights are available, many people can not afford to buy health coverage through COBRA, which costs on average $600 a month, plus a 2 percent service fee.
Myth #8: I have health insurance and so the problems of the uninsured do not affect me.
Here are the facts:
· 6.5 percent of premium costs paid by the insured subsidize health care for the uninsured.
· Those of us who have health insurance through work are just one major illness or accident away from being uninsured. If we were unable to work, we would face either the high cost of COBRA coverage or the challenge of finding an alternative that did not exclude pre-existing medical conditions.
Myth #9: Physician volunteers can adequately address the needs of the uninsured.
Here are the facts:
· The proportion of physicians providing charity care declined across all major specialty groups between 1996 and 2005, according to the Center for Studying Health System Change.
· As the number uninsured has grown, the number of charity hours per 100 uninsured people declined 18 percent, from 7.7 hours in 1996-97 to 6.3 hours in 2004-05.
Health insurance opens the door to preventive services, cost-effective medical care, and a more productive and loyal work force. Please support SB 1137 and Pennsylvania Access to Basic Care today! Thank you. Berry Friesen, Public Affairs Manager, www.pahealthaccess.org

DCW Training Proposal
The Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association had the opportunity to comment on a proposed training program for Direct Care Workers. This training program included a requirement for initial basic training for all direct care workers (even those hired privately by consumers), a second tier of training for those wishing to work in nursing homes and an advanced certification for DCWs who take apprentice training programs in specialty areas. While the SCDCWA is very supportive of any training initiatives, concerns regarding the implementation and funding of the training programs as well as reimbursement for “licensed” workers who complete training and apprenticeship programs were relayed to officials for consideration in any legislative effort to mandate training. Also of concern was the shortage of workers coming into the field today that may be hindered by this new training initiative. Comments were collected from various workers and providers in the county and compiled into one letter sent on behalf of the Association. Thank you to everyone who took the time to look over the proposal and submit comments to be included. The complete draft of the training proposal can be viewed at the following web site:
http://www.pahomecare.org/directcarerecommendations.pdf

Other State Legislation proposals:
HB 2257: The bill requires that the Dept of Health promulgate regulations for small residential hospices with 22 or fewer beds and ensures that children’s rooms in the hospice facility be secured from those areas that provide services to anyone 19 and older.
HB 2400: The Employee Misclassification Prevention Act seeks to ensure that individuals that receive wages for services performed would be classified as employees, not independent contractors. The legislation cites that the practice of improperly classifying employees as contractors “puts businesses that comply with the law at a competitive disadvantage”. The PA Homecare Association is closely examining the impact this legislation may have on homecare registries and fiscal intermediaries.

Federal Legislation proposals:
HR 5613: This legislation places a temporary one year moratorium on seven Medicaid regulations proposed by the Bush administration that would make significant cuts to the state Medicaid programs, including placing caps on federal matches of state Medicaid dollars. Though the seven Medicaid regulations do not directly impact homecare, any cuts to Medicaid would likely have an impact effect throughout the state Medicaid program and impede efforts to increase access to home and community based care. A similar bill recently introduced in the Senate (S 2819) also places a one year moratorium on pending Medicaid regulations. Both House and Senate leaders believe they have enough votes to override a potential veto by President Bush.
S 2795: Attempts to make health insurance more affordable for small businesses and self-employed individuals by creating the Small Business Health Options Program (or SHOP). The bill would allow small business to band together in pools to purchase health insurance. Self insured individuals could also join the pools. Offer a range of private health plan options. Give small businesses and self employed individuals tax credits. Make it illegal to use health status and claims experience to set premium rates. Sponsors of the bill cited the shortage of direct care workers as one of the reasons for this legislation.


On the Lighter Side: FAMILY
Three sisters, ages 92, 94 and 96, live in a house together. One night the 96-year-old draws a bath. She puts her foot in and pauses. She yells to the other sisters, "Was I getting in or out of the bath?"
The 94-year-old yells back, "I don't know. I'll come up and see." She starts up the stairs and pauses "Was I going up the stairs or down?"
The 92-year-old is sitting at the kitchen table having tea listening to her sisters. She shakes her head and says, "I sure hope I never get that forgetful, knock on wood." She then yells, "I'll come up and help both of you as soon as I see who's at the door."


Training Opportunities!
Dementia Training
Professional dementia training is being offered by Good News Consulting, Inc. and sponsored by Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc. and the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center Behavioral Health Unit. The training will take place at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center on August 27th. Cost $80.00. Please call Kim Noel of Spectrum Senior Consultants, Inc. at 570-668-0368 for more information or to register. www.spectrumseniorconsultants.com

Alzheimer’s Support Group
Please join Providence Place and Manor Care at their Alzheimer’s Support Group meetings. This group meets monthly alternating meeting locations each month. The next meeting is at Manor Care July 22nd, Providence Place August 19th, Manor Care Sept 23rd, Providence Place October 21st and Manor Care Nov 18th. No meeting in December. The October meeting features Dr. Chawluk who will be speaking about Alzheimer's/Parkinson's disease. All meetings start at 5pm. If you would like to join everyone for dinner, please pre-register for the program. Anyone interested is welcome to attend. Please contact Providence Place at 628-6950 or Manor Care at 622-9582 if you would like more information or to register for the meeting.

Free Publicity For Your Organization’s Community Education Programs
The SCDCWA is looking to advertise free training and education programs as well as support groups that would be of interest to direct care workers. Any agency or facility that offers educational programs is asked to contact Lori at scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com to be included in the next quarterly edition of this newsletter! Networking to provide continuing education opportunities at convenient times for direct care workers is a step toward achieving a better qualified and professional workforce. Thank you

Letter from the editor
Direct Care Workers are the backbone of the healthcare industry. They are the ones providing the basic care needed by consumers to survive. They are the eyes and ears of the caseworkers, nurses, therapists and doctors that are also involved with a consumers care. Everyone from the President of the United States down to every last person in the health and human service industry understands the importance of and need for quality direct care professionals in the field. The Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association as well as the PA Direct Care Workers Association is trying to support direct care workers so that their needs are fulfilled and they can continue to provide care to our counties most fragile population—those with disabilities and chronic illnesses that depend on our care.
Both entities stay alert and active in legislative issues that will affect the ability of direct care workers to continue to work in the field and also to attract new workers. They work to provide a plethora of educational opportunities so that direct care workers can grow in their knowledge and skill thus providing even better care for their consumers. They are advocates of legislative issues to address the lack of affordable health insurance for workers. They are working to get increases in reimbursement so that wages can be increased.
Direct Care Workers, however, are at times their own worst enemy. While studies have shown that if a consumer has a good outcome they tell 1 or 2 other people ; when they have a bad outcome they tell 12 other people! The few among us that provide substandard care, don’t show up for work, quit with no notice, collect unemployment or comp when they could be working, make it difficult for all of the good workers to gain the respect of the public at large for the work that we do and also negatively impact wages and benefits to those working. While agencies and facilities are trying to combat this “negative” image of direct care workers, the workers themselves must take some responsibility for change.
Workers must start realizing that what they and their co-workers do affects the image of the profession. If workers want to be treated professionally—with professional wages, benefits and respect, they must help stop the “bad” workers from negatively impacting the profession.
The Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association is an opportunity for all DCWs to have a say in how their industry is managed and governed. This is your voice. Don’t let someone else speak for you. Learn all you can about the business end of the profession so we can work together to help solve the long term issues affecting direct care work.

Fundraising for the SCDCWA
As everyone knows, nothing in this life is free. The SCDCWA is in need of funding to help offset the costs of the programs we are trying to provide. While those working on behalf of the Association are not paid, we do have expenses that must be covered. Our biggest expense is ADVERTISING! Below are some opportunities for individuals &/or businesses to help support the Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association. Please contact us for information about deducting monetary donations on your taxes! All fundraising programs at this time are managed through Lori’s Angels at 1-877-264-3505 or scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com

Reflective Address Markers
The Association is selling the green reflective address markers for $20 each. The markers are life savers when emergency response providers need to find your home fast. Signs are made up for each individual to post at their driveway or roadside mailbox to make their home easily identifiable, especially at night! These signs also help direct care workers locate the homes of new clients!

Cruise Car Tickets
The Association is selling tickets for the 2008 Great Pottsville Cruise 1995 Admiral Blue Corvette Coupe to be drawn Cruise Night August 10th, 2008. Donations for the tickets are $2.00 per ticket or 3 tickets for $5.00. Someone will win this car—why not you?

Compact Florescent Light Bulbs
In a partnership with Schuylkill County Vision and PPL, the SCDCWA is selling energy efficient compact florescent light bulbs. Compact fluorescent light bulbs that normally retail for $7 each will be sold for $4. Each bulb is a 60W equivalent. Save money, save the environment help us. Call to order yours today.

Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association, Inc.
The Vision
Honoring, Valuing, Respecting and Training the Direct Caregiver, thus assuring that people who need care are treated with Skill, Dignity, and Compassion
Our Mission
To increase the number of trained, qualified Direct Caregivers to care for elders and disabled individuals and to decrease turnover rates.
The focus of the Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association is to:
Provide quality educational opportunities for workers within the county.
Provide for monthly meetings where paid caregivers can receive the same type of support and information that unpaid and family members receive through various programs.
Promote Direct Care positions as a worthwhile respectable profession for prospective workers.
Publish a newsletter aimed at providing Direct Care Workers with information affecting their positions—such as new techniques or advancements, legislative changes, tips on performing their jobs better, promoting professionalism and promoting educational opportunities.
Advocate for direct care workers, providers and consumers on legislative issues affecting the profession.
Some day many of us will be in need of the services of a Direct Care Worker at home, in a facility or for a loved one. Our hope is that when that day comes, a caring, educated professional will be the person providing for our needs.


To be added to (or removed from) our email list, contribute information or articles for the October edition of this newsletter, or to volunteer your time for our Association please email scdirectcareworkers@yahoo.com or call Lori Michael at Lori’s Angels 1-877-264-3505.

Next meeting: Sept 18th, 2008 @ 3pm Lori’s Angels, Schuylkill Haven Please RSVP your attendance plans.

SCDCWA April 2008 Newsletter

The Schuylkill County
Direct Care Workers Association, Inc.
It is with great pleasure that I announce the incorporation of the Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association! We are now officially a not for profit corporation. Momentum is building for a very successful year of education, recognition and advocacy on behalf of direct care workers and the consumers they serve. Anyone interested in helping the Association with any or all of these issues please contact me. Lori Michael RN c/o Lori’s Angels, 223 Route 61 South, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972. 1-877-264-3505 or 385-8450 or email: jlskm@verizon.net

Free Publicity For Your Organization’s
Community Education Programs
The SC-DCWA is looking to advertise free training and education programs as well as support groups that would be of interest to direct care workers. Any agency or facility that offers free educational programs is asked to contact Lori at jlskm@verizon.net to be included in the next quarterly edition of this newsletter! Networking to provide continuing education opportunities at convenient times for direct care workers is a step toward achieving a better qualified and professional workforce. Thank you

On the Lighter Side: LOST IN THE DARNDEST PLACES
An elderly Floridian called 911 on her cell phone to report that her car has been broken into. She is hysterical as she explains her situation to the dispatcher: "They've stolen the stereo, the steering wheel, the brake pedal and even the accelerator!" she cried. The dispatcher said, "Stay calm. An officer is on the way." A few minutes later, the officer radios in. "Disregard." He says. "She got in the back-seat by mistake."

Reverse Home Mortgages: Is it the answer?
One of the paradoxes of our current long-term care system is that impaired, older Americans are struggling to live at home at a time when they own $2 trillion in untapped housing wealth. The majority of older Americans are homeowners. Many have accumulated substantial amounts of home equity, including families whose other retirement resources may be very modest.
More and more seniors are desperately trying to stay in their home as long as they are financially able to do so. Yet few are aware that they can use the equity in their home to pay for the services and care necessary for them to live independently.
Reverse mortgages may provide them with a solution. According to a report by the National Council On Aging, “With an estimated amount of over $72,000 available on average to older households from these loans, reverse mortgages can help impaired elders pay for several years of daily home care visits, over a decade of out-of-pocket expenses and respite for family caregivers, or substantial home modifications.”
Qualifying is easy. The amount a person qualifies for is based on the value of the home, the age of the youngest homeowner and the current interest rate. Income and credit history are not considered, so almost any senior can qualify.
There are no payments to make as long as the last surviving owner occupies the home as their primary residence. The bank is repaid later, once the home is sold or the estate is settled.
They can sell the home at any time because there is no change in the name on the deed. Reverse mortgages hold considerable promise to help impaired, older homeowners pay for the services they need to continue to live at home.
Care workers are in an ideal position to help identify needy seniors obtain more information about reverse mortgages. If you or one of your clients would like more information about reverse mortgages, please feel free to contact me either through your branch M&T Bank or directly by calling me at 1-610-921-4817

Making Healthy Food Choices
Knowing what to eat can be confusing. Everywhere you turn, there is news about what is or isn't good for you. Some basic principles have weathered the fad diets, and have stood the test of time. Here are a few tips on making healthful food choices for you and your entire family.
Eat lots of vegetables and fruits. Try picking from the rainbow of colors available to maximize variety. Eat non-starchy vegetables such as spinach, carrots, broccoli or green beans with meals.
Choose whole grain foods over processed grain products. Try brown rice with your stir fry or whole wheat spaghetti with your favorite pasta sauce.
Include dried beans (like kidney or pinto beans) & lentils into your meals.
Include fish in your meals 2-3 times a week.
Choose lean meats like cuts of beef and pork that end in "loin" such as pork loin & sirloin. Remove the skin from chicken & turkey.
Choose non-fat dairy such as skim milk, non-fat yogurt & non-fat cheese.
Choose water and calorie-free "diet" drinks instead of regular soda, fruit punch, sweet tea & other sugar-sweetened drinks.
Choose liquid oils for cooking instead of solid fats that can be high in saturated & trans fats. Remember that fats are high in calories. If you're trying to lose weight, watch your portion sizes of added fats.
Cut back on high calorie snack foods and desserts like chips, cookies, cakes & full-fat ice cream.
Eating too much of even healthful foods can lead to weight gain. Watch your portion sizes.
Advocacy Corner
This past quarter, several home care agency representatives within our county met with legislators regarding issues affecting home care, there direct care employees. At the top of the list was a request for our elected officials to release the $76 million dollars allocated for PDA waiver but not used. One of the greatest problems with retention of direct care staff working for home care agencies is the instability in work hours. Freeing up funding already allocated for this purpose would go a long way in keeping our direct care staff employed with the number of hours they need. Representatives Argall and Seip both pledged to work on our behalf in Harrisburg to get the funding released so that services can be provided to consumers who have already been deemed eligible but remain on a waiting list for services. Within 5 days of our meeting with Rep. Seip, a copy of the letter he penned to Sec. of Aging Nora Dowd Eisenhower was received by us advocating our request!
Meetings were held by the Governor’s newly established Office of Long Term Living to discuss possible changes in the way Pennsylvania manages it’s numerous Medicaid Waiver programs. The January 28th meeting in Harrisburg was attended by Michael Brown RN, Addus Healthcare, Mary Turick, Compass Rose Care, LLC, and Lori Michael RN, Lori’s Angels. Michael Brown spoke on behalf of home care agencies.
If anyone has any advocacy issues they would like to submit for our next publication, please contact jlskm@verizon.net. Thank you


Get $2,000 Match with Family Savings Account
The Family Savings Account (FSA) is a matched savings program for moderate to low-income Pennsylvanians to promote self-sufficiency through savings, financial management education and asset accumulation. Could the FSA program be right for you or someone you know?
How: FSA Participants must save at least $10 per week for 1 to 3 years. Savings must be for home purchase or repair, financing a small business, or higher education for the participant or child. Savings are matched dollar for dollar up to $2,000. Participants may save on an individual basis or collectively through savings groups.
Key to Success: Experience has shown that low-income individuals achieve their savings goals by developing new spending priorities and/or finding temporary part-time work to bolster their monthly income. To help ensure success, FSA participants receive required courses on personal financial strategies including budgeting, credit, banking products and options, access to loans, education, homeownership, business, investment options, retirement planning and taxes.
Eligibility: Applicants must be residents of PA with a household income less than 200% of the poverty level ($19,140 for one plus $6250 for each additional family member), and with a household net worth less than $10,000 (excluding primary residence and one car).
To learn more: PA Dept. Community and Economic Development at (717) 720-7331

Attention Direct Care Workers
I would like to take the opportunity to thank all direct care workers—especially those in home care, for going to work! With the price of gas up 75 cents in just one year to an all time average high of $3.25 per gallon and rising, something needs to be done to support better wages and benefits for direct care workers. Consumers depend on the services you provide on a daily basis. The work you do is so valuable in keeping long term healthcare costs down by allowing consumers to age in the least restrictive environment that they chose. Without your skill and dedication, this would not be possible. Hang in there! We need to start a letter writing campaign to our elected officials to address the long term needs of direct care workers so that we can continue to provide the care consumers need, where they need it while earning a living wage and with affordable healthcare benefits. With out government support in the form of funding, long term care is in jeopardy of surviving. Anyone interested in joining our advocacy group should contact Lori at 1-877-264-3505 or jlskm@verizon.net

"I CAN HEAR JUST FINE!" Three retirees, each with a hearing loss, were playing golf one fine March day. One remarked to the other, "Windy, isn't it?". "No," the second man replied, "it's Thursday." And the third man chimed in, "So am I. Let's have a beer."

Sundowner’s Syndrome
Sundowning or “sundowner’s syndrome” is a commonly used term among professionals working with patients who have Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. This term describes a pattern of increased behavior problems in the late afternoon and early evening. Persons may exhibit increased confusion, agitation, wandering, hallucinations and general disorientation.
While the cause is not definitive, there are likely several factors. Primarily, the person may be tired after daily activities and caregivers may suffer similar weariness which shows through to the care recipient. The change from light to dark and the “internal clock” may also play a role during this time which has traditionally been transitional (i.e. returning from work, or family time in evenings).
Here are some practical tips, compiled from our experience and advice from the Alzheimer’s Association website:
Anticipate this problem and schedule accordingly. Try to reduce activities and outings at this time. Plan some quiet, alone time in late afternoons.
Keep a routine (always important for a person with dementia). Naps or quiet activities may be helpful during this time (and you may want to avoid naps earlier that might interfere with later sleep).
Reassure the person and redirect them when agitated or restless. Do not attempt to argue with them or use “reality therapy”.
Examine causes of agitation. Noise or stimulation may increase these behaviors.
Identify causes of physical discomfort. If you notice a major change in behavior, a person may be feeling pain or have an underlying infection. Many times, our care managers will note a significant change and when a culture is done, the client has a UTI (urinary tract infection).
As a caregiver, get plenty of rest and recognize your need for a break. Your irritation or exhaustion may further exacerbate your care recipient’s behaviors.

The Workinetics Department at Schuylkill Rehabilitation Center
Can Help YOU Get Back to Work Safely
By: Lauren Shandor, OTR/L
The Workinetics Department at Schuylkill Rehabilitation Center offers several services including work simulation and conditioning, functional capacity evaluations, ergonomic and body mechanics evaluations, and job site evaluations. The goals of the Workinetics program are to transition the person back to work safely, develop safe job performance to prevent re-injury, and to reinforce appropriate work behaviors. Another goal of treatment is to determine if any modifications are recommended for the person to return to gainful employment.
Functional capacity evaluations assess a person’s functional capabilities with lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling, and other job specific tasks. SRC uses the Joule system by Valpar to complete all FCE testing protocols and a comprehensive report is sent to the referring physician with comments and recommendations made for the individual.
Ergonomic and body mechanics evaluations help to educate the person on the correct way to use the body with work activities and daily tasks. The therapist instructs the patient on use of proper body mechanics techniques with lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying and other job specific tasks.
Job site evaluations are another service that SRC offers. Licensed occupational therapists assess the tasks of a patient’s specific job at the workplace. Interviewing, pictures, or video may be taken to analyze the job and any risks there may be for the patient with return to work. A report is sent to the referring physician, employer, and patient with recommendations for any modifications that may be needed to provide a safe and ergonomically correct work environment.
If you would like more information on these services for your employees, patients, or yourself, please join us for a free seminar on Tuesday April 8, 2008 @ 6:00 p.m. Call us at (570) 621-9500 or visit our website at www.schuylkillrehab.com.

Support Groups at Schuylkill Rehabilitation Center
300 Schuylkill Medical Plaza, Pottsville, PA 17901

Stroke Support Group: first Wednesday of each month at noon
Fibromyalgia Support Group: first Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m.
Multiple Sclerosis Support Group: first Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m.

Chronic Pain Support Group: first Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m.

Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group: second Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
The purpose of these support groups is to provide ongoing education and support to those persons suffering from a stroke, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, or a traumatic brain injury and their significant others/support system. The meetings provide an opportunity to talk freely about problems, concerns, and frustrations, to share information and encouragement, provide education, helpful hints, and support. Through your participation in this group, you gain m ore knowledge and get ideas about what can be done to ease its effects on your life.

WHAT HAPPENS AT MEETINGS
Meetings are open to the public and may include lectures with question and answer sessions, given by various medical experts, review of current literature/ research, and general discussions among members. Educational sessions may include films, handouts, or seminars. The meetings generally last about 1 to 2 hours and are free of charge. Everyone is encouraged to participate at their own comfort level.

BENEFITS OF SUPPORT GROUPS
Support groups offer great benefits to individuals who attend them. Studies have shown that individuals who attend support groups in addition to their medical treatments, report less anxiety and depression, along with actually living longer than those who do not attend. Studies show that having social support from others in the group actually serves to boost the immune system by reducing the persons’ overall anxiety and psychological stress. Other benefits of support groups include:
Promoting mutual understanding and encouragement within the group
Providing valuable information on the latest treatments and techniques
Sharing mutual concerns
Teaching and learning coping skills
Providing emotional support
Providing affirmation and advocacy
For more information, please call us at 570-621-9500 or visit our website at www.schuylkillrehab.com


Help Wanted with the SCDCWA Fundraiser!
Our Joe Corbi Pizza and Cookie fundraiser will run from March 7th to April 16th, 2008. All orders are to be turned in to Lori Michael at Lori’s Angels before April 18th, 2008. Please collect payment at the time of sale, make checks payable to the Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association, Inc.
We would appreciate it greatly if each organization would to try to sell at least 110 items to help us meet our fundraising needs. The more you sell the better! (10 people selling 11 items each)
Everyone selling at least 11 items will receive a FREE BUCKET OF CHOCOLATE CHUNK COOKIE DOUGH! Just by filling out the ticket in the center of the catalog
Please call Lori at Lori’s Angels 1-877-264-3505 with any questions or if you need catalogs! Orders with payments can be mailed to: Lori’s Angels, 223 Route 61 South, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
Thank you for helping us reach our fundraising goals so that we can provide a quality educational opportunity for our direct care staff on May 1st as well as to host a recruitment event in the fall. To join the email list: jlskm@verizon.net

May 1st Direct Care Conference “Defining Excellence”
The Direct Care Worker Conference is intended for Direct Care Workers, those interested in a career in direct care, providers and consumers who are interested in promoting direct care as a valuable, worthwhile profession. We respectfully request that providers who plan to attend all or part of the conference please include at least one individual from your direct care staff as well. We thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

Schuylkill County

Direct Care Workers Association, Inc.

A not for profit association for professional caregivers

The Vision Honoring, Valuing, Respecting and Training the Direct Caregiver, thus assuring that people who need care are treated with Skill, Dignity, and Compassion

Our Mission To increase the number of trained, qualified Direct Caregivers to care for elders and disabled individuals and to decrease turnover rates.

The focus of the Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association is to:
Provide quality educational opportunities for workers within the county.
Provide for monthly meetings where paid caregivers can receive the same type of support and information that unpaid and family members receive through various programs.
Promote Direct Care positions as a worthwhile respectable profession for prospective workers.
Publish a newsletter aimed at providing Direct Care Workers with information affecting their positions—such as new techniques or advancements, legislative changes, tips on performing their jobs better, promoting professionalism and promoting educational opportunities.
Advocate for direct care workers, providers and consumers on legislative issues affecting the profession.

Some day many of us will be in need of the services of a Direct Care Worker at home, in a facility or for a loved one. Our hope is that when that day comes, a caring, educated professional will be the person providing for our needs.


2008 agenda
1. Resume publication of the newsletter on a quarterly basis.
2. Plan a conference for direct care workers in the spring
3. Actively recruiting membership for our county organization as well as the state wide association (PA Direct Care Workers Association)


Anyone interested in helping our organization achieve our goals by volunteering your services, providing educational opportunities, submitting articles, hosting a meeting or contributing financially please contact us. There is no charge to participate in our association or to receive the newsletter! We are happy to promote your organization’s free educational programs for direct care workers.


Lori Michael RN
c/o Lori’s Angels, 223 Route 61 South, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
Or call 1-877-264-3505

Who Are Direct Care Workers?

Direct Care Workers provide between 70-80% of the paid hands on personal assistance for individuals with disabilities , chronic illness or the elderly. They are known by a variety of titles--nursing assistants, certified nursing assistants, home care aides, personal care aides, attendants. Regardless of title, direct care workers work with consumers to bathe, dress and eat along with other daily living tasks. Consumers rely on these workers to provide them with comfort, companionship and care in an atmosphere that preserves their dignity and well being in the setting they chose. DCWs work in private homes, assisted/personal care facilities, nursing homes, group homes, adult day facilities and hospitals. As a result, consumers consistently cite the quality of their relationship with their direct care workers as a primary determinant of the quality of life.

Nationwide and here in Schuylkill Countywe face a critical shortage of high-quality direct care workers who can meet the needs of our country's long term care consumers.

Turnover rates are often as high as 100%. Wages are low, benefits poor, the work physically demanding and sometimes emotionally draining.

As a result of the low wages, 19% of home care aides and 16% of nursing home aides are poor according to the 2000 census. Of all nursing home and home health aides who are single parents, 30-35% receive food stamps (hht://www/gao.gov/new.items/d01750t.pdf). In addition to low wages, more than half the direct care workforce works only part time--in large part due to the instability of work availability on a regular or prescheduled basis.

According to PHI, one out of every four nursing home workers and more than two out of five home care workers lack health insurance coverage. While two thirds of Americans under age 65 receive health coverage through an employer, only 48% of nursing home aides and 34% of home care aides have employer based coverage.

The number of home health aide positions is expected to grow by 56% making this the fastest grwoing field in America! Personal and home care aide positions are expected to inrease by more than 41%. Nurse aide, orderly and attendant positions are predicted to increase by 22%.

The Schuylkill County Direct Care Workers Association, Inc. is working with many other state and national organizations to address the issues facing this worker shortage and invite you to join us in our efforts. Our organization is working to improve the quality of workers by facilitating educational, networking and advocacy opportunities. Help us address the issues of respect, value and funding to ensure that a direct care worker will be there to help if you need it someday!