Providing compassionate in-home and out-patient care in Plymouth, NH

PBH&HH Extends Heartfelt Gratitude to Dedicated Volunteers

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Extends Heartfelt Gratitude to Dedicated Volunteers Ahead of Volunteer Appreciation Week.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Hospice Volunteer Training

As Volunteer Appreciation Week approaches, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health proudly acknowledges the invaluable contributions of over 20 hospice volunteers who selflessly devote their time and energy to support patients and caregivers in their time of need.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization, providing compassion, companionship, and practical assistance to those navigating the challenges of end-of-life care. From lending a listening ear to sharing comforting moments, our volunteers play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for our patients and their families.

“Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds and bring a wealth of experience and empathy to our hospice program,” said Angie Burke, Volunteer Coordinator at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “Their dedication and generosity truly embody the spirit of compassionate care.”

Volunteers at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health come from all walks of life, motivated by a shared desire to give back to their community. Some have been touched by the support of a hospice volunteer in their own lives and are driven to pay it forward, while others, including veterans, seek to connect with and support fellow veterans in their final journey.

In recognition of the indispensable role our volunteers play, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health invites individuals who are passionate about making a difference to join our upcoming volunteer training program. The FREE, five-week program, running from May 28th to June 25th, offers comprehensive training to prepare volunteers to assist families caring for their loved ones during their final stages of life. With just a few hours a month, volunteers can make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

“Our hospice volunteers provide invaluable support in various ways, whether it’s through companionship, household tasks, or sharing the joy of music and therapy animals,” added Burke. “Their selflessness inspires us all, and we are immensely grateful for their unwavering commitment.”

Join us at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health in honoring and celebrating our remarkable volunteers during Volunteer Appreciation Week and beyond. Together, we can continue to make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.

For more information about volunteering with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health or to register for our upcoming training program, please contact Angie Burke at 603-536-2232 or info@pbhha.org. For more information about Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health and its services, visit our Volunteer Page.

Pemi-Baker Celebrates National Occupational Therapy Month

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Celebrates National Occupational Therapy Month!

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Occupational Therapy, Plymouth, NH

As we enter April, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is proud to recognize National Occupational Therapy Month, shedding light on the invaluable role Occupational Therapists (OTs) play in enhancing the lives of patients within the comfort of their own homes.

Occupational Therapy (OT) is a vital component of home health care that aims to help individuals of all ages achieve independence and improve their quality of life through customized interventions. OT services provided in the home setting are particularly significant, offering patients a personalized approach to recovery and empowerment.

OTs provide a wide range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient within the familiarity and convenience of their home environment. These services may include:

  1. Assessment and Evaluation: OTs conduct comprehensive assessments to understand the patient’s abilities, limitations, and goals, enabling them to develop personalized treatment plans.
  2. Adaptive Equipment Recommendations: OTs recommend and assist in obtaining adaptive equipment and devices that promote independence and safety within the home.
  3. Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Training: OTs work with patients to improve their ability to perform everyday tasks such as dressing, grooming, bathing, and meal preparation, enhancing their overall independence and quality of life.
  4. Home Safety Assessments: OTs evaluate the home environment to identify potential hazards and make modifications or recommendations to ensure a safe and accessible living space.
  5. Cognitive Rehabilitation: OTs provide cognitive rehabilitation techniques to help patients regain and enhance cognitive skills, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities.

By bringing Occupational Therapy directly into the home, patients can experience numerous benefits, including accelerated recovery, increased motivation, and enhanced overall well-being.

“At Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, we understand the importance of providing comprehensive and compassionate care to our patients in the comfort of their own homes,” said Melissa Smith, Home Health, Hospice & Palliative Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “During National Occupational Therapy Month and beyond, we remain committed to empowering our patients to achieve their highest level of independence and function through our exceptional Occupational Therapy services. Thank you to Nicole Sullivan, OT, Lindsay Hann, OT and Amanda Robinson, COTA/L for all that you do for our patients.”

For more information about Occupational Therapy or Physical Therapy in the home, please contact Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health at 603-536-2232 or visit our website at www.pbhha.org.

Celebrating National Healthcare Decisions Day with Free Workshops

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Celebrates National Healthcare Decisions Day with Free Workshops

As National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) approaches on April 16th, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health reaffirms its commitment to empowering individuals and families in making informed healthcare choices. NHDD serves as a crucial reminder of the significance of advance care planning, encouraging open discussions about healthcare preferences and ensuring those wishes are respected.Advance Directives, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

In alignment with the mission of NHDD, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is pleased to announce a series of free workshops throughout the month of April. These workshops will be held during the Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at participating Grafton County Senior Centers, providing an accessible platform for individuals to learn and engage in advance care planning discussions.

The schedule for the workshops is as follows:

During these workshops, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions while filling out their Advance Directive and POLST forms. These sessions are offered free of charge, with all necessary forms provided.

“National Healthcare Decisions Day is a vital initiative, and we are proud to support it by offering these educational workshops,” said Aubrey Engle, RN, Executive Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “By providing resources and guidance, we aim to empower individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare preferences.”

For more information about the workshops or to inquire about advance care planning, please contact Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health at 603-536-2232 or visit our website at www.pbhha.org.

Announcing April Grief Support Group Series

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Announces Grief Support Group SeriesFree Grief & Loss Support groups offered at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is proud to announce its upcoming Grief Support Group series, designed to provide solace and support to those navigating the challenging journey of mourning the loss of a loved one.

The six-week series, based on Alan D. Wolfelt’s renowned six needs of mourning, will commence on April 9th and run through May 14th. Sessions will be held every Tuesday from 10:30am to 12:00 noon at the Plymouth Regional Senior Center, offering a safe and nurturing environment for individuals to find strength alongside others walking a similar path.

“We understand the immense difficulty of losing a loved one and the importance of finding support during such a challenging time,” said Guy Tillson, Chaplain. “Our grief support groups aim to provide a comforting space where individuals can navigate their grief journey together.”

The sessions will take place in the upstairs art room of the Plymouth Regional Senior Center, which is accessible by elevator. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health extends its gratitude to the center for providing the space.

Individuals interested in participating are encouraged to pre-register by contacting Guy Tillson at 603-536-2232 or via email at info@pbhha.org.

For more information about Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health and its services, visit www.pbhha.org.

Welcoming Tara Di Salvo as New Finance Director

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is thrilled to announce the appointment of Tara Di Salvo, B.S., M.Ed., as the organization’s new Finance Director. With an esteemed background in finance and administration, Tara brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.Tara DiSalvo, Finance Director, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH
Prior to joining Pemi-Baker, Tara served as the Director of Finance and Administration at the Bill White Educational & Behavioral Consulting Services in Ashland, NH. Her contributions to financial management and strategic planning have significantly impacted organizations she has been a part of. Additionally, Tara has a rich history of service within the financial aid and grants departments at PSU, where she demonstrated exceptional leadership and financial expertise.
As a member of the leadership team at Pemi-Baker, Tara will play a crucial role in guiding the organization’s financial strategies, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and supporting its mission to provide compassionate care to those in need. Her diverse skill set and dedication to excellence make her a valuable addition to the Pemi-Baker family.
“We are delighted to welcome Tara Di Salvo to our team as the new Finance Director,” said Aubrey Engle, RN, Executive Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “Tara’s extensive experience and proven track record in finance and administration will be instrumental in advancing our financial objectives and enhancing our ability to serve our community.”
Tara holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Education degree, further underscoring her commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Her passion for making a positive impact aligns perfectly with Pemi-Baker’s mission of providing high-quality hospice and home health care services to individuals and families in our community. “Joining the Pemi-Baker team allows me to combine my educational and financial experience with my desire to work for an organization that provides caring and compassionate service to our community,” said Di Salvo.
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Tara Di Salvo as she embarks on this new chapter with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health.

Announcing Our Auction Fundraiser & Seeking Business Sponsorships

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Announces Auction Fundraiser and Seeks Business Sponsorships to Support Their Mission.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, your local, non-profit, visiting nurse association, is excited to announce their upcoming auction fundraiser to be held on line the month of May. The event runs from May 1st– 30th and all proceeds raised are for friends and neighbors who are under-insured as well as Pemi-Baker’s FREE community programs: ‘Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse’, Grief and Caregiver Support Groups and Advance Directive workshops.

All proceeds from the auction fundraiser will directly benefit our programs and help us achieve our mission of supporting families with advanced illness at home. However, we cannot achieve this alone, and we are seeking the support of local businesses to help us achieve our fundraising goals.

We are inviting businesses in the community to sponsor the event through a donation of goods, services, or funds. As a sponsor, your business will be recognized on our event signage, website, and social media accounts, and you will have the opportunity to connect with potential customers and demonstrate your commitment to supporting our community.

With the support of our community and local businesses, we can continue to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.

If you are interested in sponsoring the event, please contact Anna Swanson, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health at 603-536-2232 or info@pbhha.org. You can also download our Sponsor/Donor form directly here. We appreciate your consideration and support.

Palliative Care for Heart Failure Patients

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Supports Heart Health Month with Palliative Care for Heart Failure Patients

As February marks National Heart Health Month, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is proud to highlight its palliative care services tailored to support individuals living with heart failure. Heart failure is a challenging condition that profoundly affects the quality of life for patients and their families. With our specialized palliative care, individuals can find relief from symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Palliative care consultation in the home with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH
Living with heart failure can be an uphill battle, often characterized by breathlessness, anxiety, fatigue, and discomfort due to swelling in the extremities. These symptoms can significantly limit one’s ability to engage in daily activities and diminish the enjoyment of life’s pleasures. Recognizing these challenges, our palliative care team steps in to provide comprehensive support and alleviate distress.
Palliative care, pronounced “pal-lee-uh-tiv,” is a specialized form of medical care designed to address the symptoms and stresses associated with serious illnesses such as heart failure. Our multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, and specialists collaborates closely with patients’ existing healthcare providers to offer an additional layer of support. Regardless of age or stage of illness, palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for both patients and their families.
Heart failure presents a range of unpredictable symptoms, from fluid retention and breathing difficulties to pain and anxiety. Our expert palliative care team is adept at managing these symptoms and helping patients navigate the challenges they face on a day-to-day basis. Whether it’s providing strategies to improve breathing or offering techniques to reduce anxiety, our team is dedicated to empowering patients with the tools they need to cope effectively.
Beyond symptom management, our palliative care professionals serve as guides, assisting patients and their loved ones in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. From facilitating discussions about treatment options to ensuring effective communication among healthcare providers, we strive to help patients make informed decisions about their care.
As we observe National Heart Health Month, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health reaffirms its commitment to providing compassionate palliative care for individuals living with heart failure. Through our tailored services, we aim to alleviate suffering, enhance comfort, and promote dignity for patients and their families throughout their journey.
For more information about our palliative care services for heart failure patients, please visit www.pbhha.org or contact 603-536-2232.

Empowering Independence: Pemi-Baker’s In-Home Therapy Services

Empowering Independence: Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Offers In-Home Therapy Services Home physical therapy with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is known for its excellent nursing services at home. But did you know that Pemi-Baker also offers outstanding therapy services at home? This includes Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy. These services help people regain their confidence and independence in everyday tasks and deal with new challenges or disabilities.

The therapy services provided by Pemi-Baker go beyond the usual care. Our therapists come to your home to make it safer and more manageable, improving your quality of life and helping you stay in your own home as you age. This personalized approach makes therapy a seamless part of your daily routine, without the hassle of travel or scheduling.

“Our therapists are devoted to helping people overcome challenges and reach their highest potential,” said Aubrey Engle, BSN, RN, Executive Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “Whether it’s learning to swallow again, managing tasks after surgery, or improving physical fitness, our team is dedicated to helping our clients live life to the fullest.”

Here’s how Pemi-Baker therapy services can help with common problems:

  1. Speech Therapy: If you have trouble swallowing, our licensed Speech Therapists can help. They use personalized techniques to help many clients eat and drink independently again, which improves their overall quality of life.
  2. Occupational Therapy: After surgery or injury, tasks like tying shoelaces or picking up objects can be hard. Our Occupational Therapists offer personalized solutions to improve existing skills and teach new ones, so you can do daily activities on your own.
  3. Physical Therapy: Our Physical Therapists not only help with recovery but also focus on long-term health. They give guidance on exercises tailored to your needs, so you can improve mobility and health on your own or with some help.

Getting home health therapy with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is easy. Most patients are referred by their doctor, who can confirm the need for home therapy services. Patients can choose Pemi-Baker by telling their doctor they want our services. If you’re unsure about the process or thinking about therapy, call us, we can help guide you through it.

“At PBH&HH, we believe that everyone deserves access to exceptional therapy services in the comfort of their own home,” added Engle. “We’re committed to empowering individuals to live their best lives, one therapy session at a time.”

For more information about Pemi-Baker’s home health therapy services, visit www.pbhha.org or call 603-536-2232.

Tips for Keeping Your Heart Healthy

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health

Shares Tips for Keeping Your Heart HealthyBlood pressure cuff, February Heart Healthy Month, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

February is Healthy Heart Month, and Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health wants to help you take care of your ticker! We’re all about making sure your heart stays strong and healthy, and we’ve got some easy tips to help you do just that.

First off, it’s super important to keep an eye on your blood pressure and pulse. These are like your heart’s report card, telling you how it’s doing. Normal blood pressure is usually between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg, and your pulse should be somewhere between 60 to 100 beats per minute. If those numbers are higher, it could mean trouble for your heart.

Now, let’s talk about things that can make your blood pressure go up. Eating too much salty or fatty food, not getting enough exercise, and not getting enough sleep can all give your heart a hard time. Try to eat foods with less salt and fat, get moving for at least 30 minutes a day, and aim for 7 hours of sleep each night. Your heart will thank you!

Stress can also affect your heart. So, take some time to relax. Whether it’s taking a bath, meditating, reading a book, or listening to music, find something that helps you unwind.

And here’s a tip: if you feel nervous when you go to the doctor and your blood pressure goes up, that’s totally normal! It’s called White Coat Syndrome. Just let your doctor know, and they’ll understand.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health encourages individuals to write down your blood pressure and pulse readings and bring them with you to your doctor’s appointments. It’ll help them keep an eye on how your heart is doing.

Stay healthy, stay happy, and keep that heart pumping strong! Pemi-Baker is here to support you in keeping your heart happy and healthy all year round!

The Rewards of Being a Hospice Volunteer

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021.  When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community.  A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers.  My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida.  The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure.  I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others.  PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals.  Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

Connie C.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2022-06-27T12:20:25-04:00

Connie C.

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021.  When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community.  A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers.  My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida.  The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure.  I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others.  PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals.  Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

You give of yourselves day & night without end!

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings-

Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated.  I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him.

And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME!  Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated.  You give of yourselves day & night without end!  God Bless you and thank you!

Pam O.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-06-11T07:31:14-04:00

Pam O.

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings- Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated.  I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him. And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME!  Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated.  You give of yourselves day & night without end!  God Bless you and thank you!

“My home physical therapy was fantastic.”

Pemi-Baker provided very good home therapy. All their therapists were pleasant, helpful in offering suggestions for better functioning after surgery, and practiced good health protocols. They were also very prompt in showing up for scheduled appointments.

Elizabeth B.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2019-11-07T12:26:12-05:00

Elizabeth B.

Pemi-Baker provided very good home therapy. All their therapists were pleasant, helpful in offering suggestions for better functioning after surgery, and practiced good health protocols. They were also very prompt in showing up for scheduled appointments.

“Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know.”

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

Terry W.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T12:43:19-05:00

Terry W.

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

“Pemi-Baker Hospice services provided kind, professional, competent services every step of the way-and even vaccinated us all for Covid/19!””

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

Paula W.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T12:31:13-05:00

Paula W.

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

“Everyone is so understanding supportive and kind.”

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from Pemi-Baker and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you for your excellent care and compassion.

Leila L.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T13:19:24-05:00

Leila L.

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from Pemi-Baker and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you for your excellent care and compassion.

Your courage during Covid-19 does not go unnoticed

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-06-11T06:27:43-04:00

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!
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