Home healthcare now最新文献

Diabetes is the most common diagnosis among home care patients. All patients with type 1 diabetes require insulin, and due to the progressive nature of type 2 diabetes, most will eventually need insulin therapy. The newer analog insulins that have been developed include long-acting, ultra-long-acting, rapid-acting, and ultra-rapid-acting. They mimic the body's natural insulin secretion and allow patients more flexibility in diet and lifestyle while achieving blood glucose control. This article provides an overview of insulin therapy and related patient care and teaching considerations.

Elder abuse is a major public health problem. Prior to the pandemic, approximately 1 in 10 older adults in the United States experienced elder mistreatment. In 2020, this number doubled to 1 in 5, a nearly 84% increase (Liu, 2022). More distressing is that in almost 60% of elder abuse and neglect cases, a family member is the offender and two-thirds of the perpetrators are adult children or spouses (Nursing Home Justice Team, 2021). Financial abuse is reportedly the fastest-growing form of elder abuse with theft scams at the forefront (Hillendahl, 2022). It is essential that healthcare providers, especially those who care for patients in their homes, understand what elder abuse is, how it can be identified, what conditions may lead to elder abuse, and what home care providers can do to properly intervene when it is suspected that older adults are being abused.

Previous research demonstrated a gap in research regarding low-income older adults who age at home. This research study focused on evaluating the motivation of low-income older adults who age in place and gaining an improved understanding of areas of motivation. The sample consisted of seven older adults in North Carolina who are affiliated with a non-profit. Data collection consisted of semi-structured interviews conducted in the participant's home. The research team conducted triangulation, theme development, and pattern development. The research revealed five themes: previous history, environmental factors, desire for safety, daily routines, and personal values. The themes are supported by the theoretical background of self-determination theory, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, and the Model of Human Occupation. It was concluded that previous history, external motivation, faith, and need for adequate housing are solid factors for older adults to age in place.

Hearing loss is a common problem caused by aging, noise exposure, ototoxic medications, and illness. Given their frequent contact with older adults, home care clinicians are uniquely positioned to recognize the adverse effects of hearing loss on physical, social, and cognitive health. This article explores the factors that contribute to hearing loss, highlighting their cumulative effects on overall hearing ability. The consequences of untreated hearing loss support the urgency of early identification, prompt intervention, and proper management of hearing disability. This article also provides an overview of available treatment options, including traditional prescription hearing aids and recently approved over-the-counter devices. By incorporating components of awareness, treatment, and effective communication strategies, healthcare clinicians can take an integrated approach to improve the overall well-being and quality of life of individuals struggling with hearing loss.