Announcing our Fall Charleston Wrap Fundraiser!
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is thrilled to announce the launch of our fall Charleston Wrap fundraiser, offering an array of delightful gift options for the upcoming holiday season and beyond. This fundraiser, which runs through October 19th and aims to raise funds to support our under-insured patients and free support groups. By participating, you can make a difference in the lives of those in need while checking off your holiday shopping list.
With over 2,500 gift ideas, the Charleston Wrap fundraiser has something to suit every occasion and taste. Whether you’re looking for holiday gifts, hostess presents, corporate tokens of appreciation, or even a little something just for yourself, we’ve got you covered. Home delivery and FREE shipping available!
Here are some of the fantastic items you can find:
- Gift Wrap and Accessories: Elevate your gift-giving game with beautiful wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows. Charleston wrap’s signature wraps are reversible, eco-friendly, and printed on 100%recyclable paper using water-based inks.
- Candles: Set the mood with a selection of aromatic candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Bel Piatto Fine Cookware: Discover high-quality cookware that will inspire your culinary adventures.
- Scarves/Hats/Bags/Totes/Jewelry: Stay stylish and on-trend with a variety of fashionable accessories.
- Boutique Gourmet Candy: Satisfy your sweet tooth with delectable gourmet candy options.
- Personalize It! Select from 1,500+ personalized items to create the perfect gift; even personalize your wrapping paper!
By participating in our fall Charleston Wrap fundraiser, you not only find exceptional gifts but also contribute to a meaningful cause. Your support helps us reach our fundraising goal of $5,000, enabling us to continue providing essential care and support to those in need.
CLICK HERE for a direct link to our Charleston Wrap store. It’s super easy and the proceeds of every purchase will make a big difference in our fundraising efforts this year.
Our fundraiser only lasts a few short weeks, ending on October 19th, 2023. We thank you for your support and hope that you will tell friends and family to join in on the fun.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth
Pemi-Baker Announces Free Hospice Volunteer Training Program
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health (PBH&HH), a leading provider of compassionate end-of-life care in central and northern NH, is thrilled to announce the start of its highly anticipated Hospice Volunteer Training Program. This comprehensive training initiative is designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve as hospice volunteers, supporting patients and their families during their end-of-life journey.
The five-week training program will start on October 10th, 2023, and will take place in-person, every Tuesday from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experienced hospice professionals who will share their expertise and guide them through various aspects of hospice care. This training aims to prepare volunteers to provide emotional support, companionship, and practical assistance to patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses.
Susan Varnum, Home Care, Palliative Care and Hospice Director at PBH&HH, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “Medicare recognizes the importance of treating the whole person, not just their medical disease, as part of the Hospice experience, which is why a robust team of individuals are involved in Hospice care. Volunteers are an integral part of Hospice providing unconditional support to patients and caregivers based on the volunteer’s availability, comfort and training.”
To participate in the Hospice Volunteer training program, interested individuals are encouraged to pre-register by October 5th, 2023. To secure a spot in the training or for further information, please contact Susan Varnum, Home Care, Palliative Care & Hospice Director, at 603-536-2232 or via email at info@pbhha.org.
PBH&HH is committed to maintaining the highest standards of care, and this volunteer training program aligns with their mission to ensure that every patient and family receives the support they need during their end-of-life journey.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
Pemi-Baker Celebrates Fall Prevention Month in September
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is proud to announce its participation in Fall Prevention Month this September. Falls are the leading cause of injuries among older adults, and Pemi-Baker is committed to raising awareness and promoting safety measures to prevent these accidents within the home.
Each year, millions of older adults suffer from fall-related injuries, leading to hospitalizations, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. Fall Prevention Month serves as a vital opportunity to educate the community about the importance of fall prevention and offer guidance on creating safer home environments for older adults.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are responsible for numerous injuries, including fractures, head injuries, and even fatalities. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of falls is significant, and Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is dedicated to making a positive impact by sharing valuable information and resources on fall prevention.
Key Ways to Prevent Falls in the Home:
- Home Safety Assessment: One of the first steps in fall prevention is conducting a thorough home safety assessment. Identifying and addressing potential hazards like loose rugs, cluttered walkways, and poor lighting can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
- Medication Management: Many medications can cause dizziness or unsteadiness, increasing the likelihood of falls. Regular medication reviews with healthcare providers can help adjust doses or find safer alternatives.
- Exercise and Balance Training: Engaging in regular exercise, especially strength and balance training, can improve stability and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Activities like tai chi and yoga are particularly beneficial.
- Vision Care: Regular eye check-ups are crucial as poor vision can lead to falls. Ensure that eyeglass prescriptions are up to date, and adequate lighting is available in all areas of the home.
- Assistive Devices: The use of assistive devices like grab bars, handrails, and non-slip mats in bathrooms and other high-risk areas can significantly enhance safety.
- Footwear: Encourage the use of proper footwear with non-slip soles and good arch support, both indoors and outdoors.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Dehydration and poor nutrition can lead to weakness and unsteadiness. Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated are essential for overall health and fall prevention.
- Home Health Services: Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health offers home health services, including skilled nursing and physical therapy, to help older adults maintain their independence and reduce fall risk.
“We are dedicated to the well-being of our community, especially its older members,” said Danielle Paquette-Horne, RN, Executive Director of Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “We hope to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe in their homes and enjoy a higher quality of life.”
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health encourages everyone to join in their efforts to prevent falls and promote safety within the home. For more information and to access free resources, or contact our team at 603-536-2232.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Presents a Grief Support Group: “Is There Life After Loss?”
Pemi-Baker Hospice and Home Health will be offering a grief support group, beginning on Tuesday, September 5, 2023. This six week series will address the question “Is There Life After Loss?” Although our lives do not go back to “the way things were” prior to our enduring a loss, life does move on and presents us with possibilities of creating a new mode of living for ourselves.
Grief is a universal emotion, and the process of healing is unique to each individual. The aim of this support group is to facilitate a safe and compassionate environment where participants can explore the myriad emotions associated with loss and discover pathways to a new, meaningful life. This program acknowledges that while life may not return to its pre-loss state, it does offer opportunities for renewal and growth.
We will examine how various steps along the way can help us to acquire the resiliency and energy to move forward on our life’s journey. The loss is not restricted to the death of a loved one, but can include such things as loss of employment, relocation to an unfamiliar place, or the end of a relationship.
The group will be meeting in the upstairs art room at the Plymouth Regional Senior Center, beginning promptly at 10:30am on Tuesday, September 5, 2023. The art room is accessible by elevator. Please get a parking permit at the front desk.
The series goes for six sessions, ending on Tuesday, October 10, 2023. Sessions will take place weekly, allowing ample time for self-reflection and the gradual integration of newfound insights into daily life. Regardless of the type of loss experienced, attendees will find a welcoming and non-judgmental space to embark on their healing journey.
There is no cost to attend the group. Pre-registration is required, by contacting Guy Tillson, Hospice Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator, by email at gtillson@pbhha.org or by leaving a phone message at 603 536-2232.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth
Seeking Palliative Care and Hospice Care Early: Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Emphasizes the Importance of Timely Support
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, a leading provider of compassionate healthcare services, is urging individuals and their families to consider seeking palliative care and hospice care at the earliest stages of a serious illness diagnosis. By doing so, patients can experience improved quality of life, better pain management, and emotional support while relieving the burden on families and caregivers.
Recognizing the pivotal role of early intervention in enhancing patients’ well-being, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to raising awareness about the benefits of seeking these services well before the stage when death is imminent. Often, patients and families are under the misconception that hospice care is only meant for end-of-life situations. However, integrating palliative care and hospice care early in the care continuum can lead to holistic care and optimal outcomes.
Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of serious illnesses, with the aim of improving the patient’s overall quality of life. Hospice care, on the other hand, is a specialized form of care provided to individuals with a life-limiting illness when curative treatments are no longer effective. It prioritizes comfort and emotional support, enabling patients to spend their remaining time in a comfortable and dignified manner.
“Timely access to palliative and hospice care can significantly enhance the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of patients,” stated Dr. Kristi Saunders, Hospice Medical Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “By initiating these services early, we can create a care plan that addresses not only the medical needs, but just as important if not more, the emotional and spiritual dimensions of the patient’s journey.”
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health’s team of experienced professionals is dedicated to guiding patients and their families through this challenging phase. Through personalized consultations, they assess the patient’s needs and preferences, allowing them to tailor a comprehensive care plan that aligns with the patient’s goals and values.
The benefits of early palliative and hospice care include:
- Enhanced Quality of Life: By managing symptoms and providing emotional support, patients can continue to engage in activities that bring them joy, maintaining a sense of purpose.
- Reduced Hospitalizations: Early intervention can help prevent crises and hospitalizations, reducing stress on both patients and families.
- Effective Symptom Management: Expert pain and symptom management contribute to a more comfortable and dignified experience for the patient.
- Emotional Support: Patients and families receive counseling and emotional support to navigate the challenges of a serious illness.
- Informed Decision-Making: Early involvement of palliative and hospice care specialists allows for informed decisions about treatments and interventions that align with the patient’s wishes.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health welcomes individuals and families to learn more about their services through their website, www.pbhha.org, or by calling 603-536-2232 to arrange a free consultation. The organization emphasizes that seeking palliative care and hospice care early is a proactive step towards ensuring the best possible quality of life during a challenging time.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in Belknap and Grafton counties since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
~Written by Anna Swanson
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Promotes ‘Write Your Will Month’ Emphasizing the Importance of Advance Directive Forms
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is excited to announce the observance of ‘Write Your Will Month’ throughout August, urging individuals to consider not only their financial wills but also their living wills, or Advance Directive Forms. The organization is dedicated to raising awareness about the significance of planning for one’s future healthcare decisions to ensure peace of mind and a smooth transition during challenging times.
A will is a crucial legal document that outlines how a person’s assets and possessions will be distributed after their passing. However, alongside financial planning, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health recognizes the importance of preparing an Advance Directive Form, commonly known as a living will. An Advance Directive is a legally binding document that allows individuals to express their medical preferences and appoint a healthcare proxy/agent to make decisions on their behalf if they become unable to communicate.
To support the community in taking proactive steps toward securing their future, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is organizing a free Advance Directive Workshop on August 22nd, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. The workshop will take place at the Newfound Area Senior Services/Bristol: Bristol United Church of Christ, located at 15 Church Street, Bristol, NH.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the importance of Advance Directives, the elements that constitute a comprehensive living will, and how to designate a trusted healthcare proxy/agent. Pemi-Baker’s social workers will be neutral guides helping you reflect on and identify the values, beliefs and goals that shape the way you make health care decisions. Pemi-Baker’s social workers will also be able to notarize your advance directive upon completion.
“We believe that taking the time to create both financial and living wills is an essential aspect of responsible life planning,” said Susan Varnum, Director of Home Health, Palliative & Hospice Care at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “By offering this free Advance Directive Workshop, we hope to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their medical care and ensure that their wishes are respected in any situation.”
To attend the free Advance Directive Workshop, interested individuals are encouraged to pre-register by calling 603-744-8395.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth
~written by Anna Swanson
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Promotes Senior Health and Safety During the Summer Months
As the summer season brings warmer weather and outdoor activities, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to promoting the well-being and safety of seniors in our community. With a focus on ensuring that older adults stay strong, healthy, and safe during these months, we are delighted to offer a range of tips and services to support their overall quality of life.
Staying active and engaging in physical activities is crucial for seniors to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Here are some recommendations from Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health to help you enjoy a healthy and safe summer:
- Hydration: As temperatures rise, it’s essential to stay hydrated. We encourage you to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day. Remember to carry a water bottle when venturing outdoors.
- Sun protection: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses when spending time outside. Seek shade during peak sun hours to avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Dress appropriately: Lightweight and breathable clothing is ideal for hot weather. Wear loose-fitting garments and choose lighter colors to help stay cool.
- Stay cool indoors: On extremely hot days, it’s advised to spend time in air-conditioned environments, such as shopping malls, community centers, or your own home.
- Outdoor activities: Engage in outdoor activities during cooler times of the day, such as early mornings or evenings. Walking, gardening, or simply enjoying a picnic in the shade can provide both physical and mental stimulation.
- Check on neighbors: Stay connected with your neighbors and friends during the summer months. Regular check-ins and visits can ensure everyone’s well-being, particularly during heatwaves or extreme weather conditions.
- Medication management: Remember to store your medications properly and avoid leaving them in hot areas, such as cars or direct sunlight. If necessary, set up reminders for taking your medications on time.
- Stay informed: Stay updated on local weather forecasts and heat advisories. Inform yourself about potential heatwaves or severe weather conditions, and take appropriate precautions.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health remains committed to supporting seniors and their families in our community. Our team of compassionate professionals is available to provide personalized home healthcare services, including nursing care, physical therapy, hospice care and assistance with daily activities.
For more information or to request our services, please contact us at: info@pbhha.org or 603-536-2232.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth
~written by Anna Swanson
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Highlights the Importance of ‘Goals of Care Conversations’
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is proud to emphasize the significance of ‘Goals of Care Conversations’ in healthcare decision-making. With a commitment to providing compassionate care tailored to each individual’s needs, Pemi-Baker recognizes the value of these essential discussions between patients, their caregivers, and family members. By engaging in such conversations, individuals can ensure that their medical care aligns with their true goals and values, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.
As an experienced healthcare provider, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is dedicated to facilitating these vital conversations with sensitivity, respect, and expertise. Recognizing the challenges and complexities surrounding end-of-life care decisions, Pemi-Baker’s skilled team is equipped to guide patients and their loved ones through this process, offering support and guidance every step of the way.
The Conversation Project (www.theconversationproject.org) serves as a valuable resource that Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health recommends to individuals seeking assistance with discussing and documenting future healthcare wishes and decisions. This website provides accessible workbooks, resources, and conversation starter guides to help people navigate these discussions effectively. By using this resource, patients and their families can gain confidence and clarity in expressing their wishes. It’s also a valuable resource for anyone over the age of 18, with or without a serious illness. Everyone should have an advance directive filled out in case of emergencies and unexpected events.
“We believe that open and honest conversations about goals of care are essential to ensuring that medical treatment is aligned with an individual’s values and preferences,” said Danielle Paquette-Horne,RN, Executive Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “At Pemi-Baker, we are committed to facilitating these conversations and providing the necessary support and guidance to empower patients and their families in making informed decisions.”
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health encourages community members, healthcare professionals, and individuals seeking guidance in discussing goals of care to utilize the valuable resources available through The Conversation Project website (www.theconversationproject.org). By engaging in these conversations, individuals can take control of their healthcare journey, promoting a higher quality of life and ensuring that their wishes are honored.
You can also ask one of their professionals at the next ‘Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse’ program offered monthly at the Plymouth Regional Senior Center, Orford Senior Center, Littleton Senior Center, Horse Meadow Senior Center or Lincoln/Lin-wood Senior Center. For specific days and times please access the calendar HERE.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Welcomes Susan Varnum, LICSW, APHSW-C, as Director of Home Care, Palliative Care, and Hospice
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, a leading provider of compassionate home-based medical care, is pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Varnum, LICSW, APHSW-C as the new Director of Home Care, Palliative Care, and Hospice. With over 20 years of experience as a dedicated social worker, including nine years specializing in hospice care, Susan brings a wealth of expertise and a strong commitment to improving the lives of patients and their caregivers.
Susan Varnum holds a master’s degree in social work and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). Her profound understanding of the complex emotional and practical challenges faced by patients and caregivers in the home care setting makes her an invaluable addition to the Pemi-Baker team. Susan’s passion for palliative care and her dedication to improving end-of-life experiences have earned her the Advanced Palliative Hospice Social Work Certification (APHSW-C) and a post-MSW certificate in Palliative and End-of-Life Care.
In her role as Director of Home Care, Palliative Care, and Hospice, Susan Varnum will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care to individuals in their homes. She will work closely with a team of experienced professionals to ensure that patients and their families receive the support they need during their challenging times.
Reflecting on her new position, Susan Varnum stated, “I want to make a difference in people’s lives and provide the best home-based medical care to patients and caregivers to make their challenging time a little easier. It’s important for patients and caregivers to have support from experienced, knowledgeable professionals so they can heal and meet their personal health care goals.”
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is thrilled to have Susan Varnum join their organization and looks forward to her contributions in enhancing the quality of care provided to their patients. Her vast experience, compassionate approach, and dedication to improving end-of-life experiences align perfectly with Pemi-Baker’s mission to support individuals and their families through their healthcare journey.
Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.
Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth
