বিভাগ: ব্লগ

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people aged 65 years or older are more prone to heat-related health problems.¹ With summer approaching, temperature changes, chronic conditions, and prescription medications increase risks for older adults.

Consult your medical provider about how the heat may affect your health conditions or medications.

How to Stay Cool

• Stay inside air-conditioned buildings whenever you can. If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, New York city has available cooling centers. Our PACE centers are open to CenterLight participants during operating hours. If you're a CenterLight participant and would like to attend our PACE center, call us to schedule transportation at 1-833-CL-CARES (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM, Monday-Friday.

• Pace yourself when doing activities, including exercise.
  

• Some medications may affect the body's ability to cool itself or may have harmful risks during extreme heat. For example, some blood pressure and heart medications can increase the risk of fainting and falling or inhibit the feeling of thirst, while others can interfere with temperature regulation.² Speak with your medical provider regarding the medications you're taking and ask them how you can minimize harmful risks.

• Take cool showers or baths to help your body cool off. Remember to be careful and ask your caregiver for assistance with these tasks.

• Wear loose, light-colored clothes that are comfortable and cool.

Caregivers: What You Can Do to Beat the Heat

• Stay informed: Check the local news for health and safety updates.

• Hydration is key.

• Time outdoor activities wisely.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

This blog post is written by Heather Ogando, MD, Vice President of Clinical Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

সূত্র:

• ¹ Heat and Older Adults (Aged 65+)
• ² Some Medications Can Increase Risk of Heat-Related Illness, UCLA Health

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_SummerSafety
Updated June 25, 2025

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According to the National Library of Medicine, people with Alzheimer’s Disease are twice as likely to fall than those without it.¹ Falls can reduce independence, impact quality of life, and in some cases, cause serious injuries. It is important to learn about risks and what we can do to help minimize them.

Why are Falls More Common in Individuals with Alzheimer’s?

• Cognitive Decline: People with Alzheimer's Disease suffer from memory loss and poor judgement, which make it harder to avoid hazards.

• Balance and Muscle Weakness: Changes in gait and balance are a common symptom of Alzheimer’s, particularly as the disease progresses. These deficits can contribute to difficulty walking and balancing, which can ultimately lead to falls.² In addition, Alzheimer's Disease affects coordination and physical strength.

• Vision Issues: Trouble judging depth and distance leads to missteps.

• Medication Side Effects: Some drugs prescribed for Alzheimer's Disease may cause dizziness or drowsiness.

• Early Risk: Falls can occur even before symptoms of Alzheimer’s are obvious or before Alzheimer's Disease is diagnosed.

What are the Consequences?

• Injuries: Fractures, head trauma, and loss of mobility.

• Fear of Falling: Leads to inactivity, isolation, and further decline.

• Stress for Caregivers: Increased responsibilities and emotional strain.

• Long-Term Impact: Hospital stays or permanent care placement.

How to Help Prevent Falls

Recognizing the connection between cognitive decline and physical vulnerability is the first step in preventing injuries and maintaining independence.

Remember to see your medical provider regularly. They can help recognize early signs and help determine if an individual has Alzheimer's Disease and increased risk of falls.

If an individual is diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, caregivers, medical professionals, and family members can work together to:

• Improve home safety

• Monitor medication side effects

• Encourage safe mobility practices

• Engage in physical therapy and balance exercises

By staying informed and proactive, we can help reduce the risk of falls and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

এই ব্লগ পোস্টটি লিখেছেন Tatyana Brisman, PT, CenterLight Healthcare PACE এর রিজিওনাল রিহ্যাবিলিটেশন ম্যানেজার।

সূত্র:

¹ Falls and Alzheimer's Disease, National Library of Medicine

² The Correlation Between Alzheimer's and Frequent Falls, Altoida

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_AlzheimersAndFalls
Updated May 7, 2025

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Do you have Arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term for conditions that affect the joints, tissues around joints, and other connective tissues. This is an inflammation that usually comes with the feeling of pain, stiffness and swelling.

There are many types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, for example, is the most common form among older adults, according to the National Institute on Aging.

Do you have Arthritis?

Symptoms vary by arthritis type but usually include joint pain and stiffness. Pain is the way your body tells you that something is wrong. You might have trouble moving around. You need to see your medical provider to find out if you're experiencing arthritis pain or something else.

What can you do to manage Arthritis?

See your medical provider regularly.

Although there are many Over-The-Counter (OTC) medications that people use to relieve pain they think is caused by Arthritis, it is important to consult a medical professional to ensure proper diagnosis. Only a medical provider can tell if you have Arthritis or a related condition and how to treat it.

Manage your weight.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), keeping a healthy weight can help slow arthritis symptoms from getting worse so you can keep doing the activities you enjoy. Your dietitian can help develop a meal plan that's right for you.

Be physically active.

Exercising, going for a walk, and moving all of your joints can help you manage your arthritis. The CDC states that according to research, physical activity reduces pain, improves physical function, and delays physical limitations. Speak with your physical or occupational therapist to discuss an exercise plan that will work for you.

Take your medicines when and how you are supposed to.

Your medical provider will let you know if medications can help you. Before you leave the doctor’s office, make sure you ask about the best way to take the medicine they prescribed. For example, you may need to take some medicines with milk, or you may need to eat something just before or after taking them, to make sure they don’t upset your stomach.

Tell your medical provider if you are taking OTC medications, using pain relieving creams, or any herbal or homeopathic treatments. They will review them to make sure that there are no interactions with your other medications.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

This blog post is written by Heather Ogando, MD, Vice President of Clinical Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

সূত্র:

• National Institutes of Health
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
• Self-Care for Arthritis: Five Ways to Manage Your Symptoms, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Arthritis Basics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Osteoarthritis, National Institute on Aging

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Arthritis
Updated April 29, 2025

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May is National Stroke Month--let's take this time to go over the signs of a stroke to ensure you can act quickly if you or a loved one is having an attack.

Did you know that having a stroke is just as serious as having a heart attack? According to the National Institute of Aging, it is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and the number one cause of serious adult disability. In addition, the risk of having a stroke increases as we age.

Recognizing the signs of a stroke will allow you to act fast--which can be the difference between life or death. If these signs are present, you should call 911 right away.

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
• Trouble speaking, thinking or walking due to a change in blood flow through the brain. These include slurred speech, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech; sudden loss of balance or coordination; and sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding speech.
• Difficulty seeing in one eye or both eyes or double vision.
• Sudden dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting.
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause or warning, which may be due to bleeding in the brain.

Lower Your Risk!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that lifestyle choices can increase your risk for stroke. Below are some ways to help lower your it.

• Maintain a healthy diet. Your diet should consist of food that are low in cholesterol, saturated fats, and sodium, such as fruits and vegetables. Consult your dietitian to ensure that your meal plan is appropriate for your specific condition.
• Stay active. Not getting enough physical activity can lead to other health conditions that increase the risk of stroke, including obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. If you are a CenterLight PACE participant, speak with your Physical and Occupational Therapists regarding what exercises and physical activities are right for you.
• Control high blood pressure and cholesterol. Speak with your medical provider regarding risks, prevention, and the treatment right for you.
• Quit smoking. Cigarette smoking can contribute to damaging the heart and blood vessels. In addition, nicotine raises blood pressure.
• Avoid drinking alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can cause high blood pressure as well as the level of triglycerides, a form of fat in your blood that can harden arteries.

Lastly, see your medical provider regularly. It is important to monitor your health and treat health conditions properly to be able to minimize your risk of a stroke.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

This blog post is written by Heather Ogando, MD, Vice President of Clinical Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

সূত্র:

• Risk Factors for Stroke, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, May 2024
• Stroke: Signs, Causes, and Treatment, National Institute on Aging, February 2023

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Stroke
Updated April 16, 2025

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Navigating the world of healthcare may feel like an overwhelming task. CenterLight’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is designed to provide comprehensive, coordinated healthcare, and while PACE offers a lifeline to many older adults, the certification process for Medicare and Medicaid can often be confusing for them.

Ensuring that older adults can access the benefits they need without unnecessary barriers is more than just a matter of paperwork—it's about helping improve lives. CenterLight PACE can help answer questions and offer support to our participants or individuals interested in enrolling.

Understanding PACE

PACE programs provide comprehensive healthcare services to older adults who are eligible for Medicare and/or Medicaid, allowing them to stay in their home and communities for as long as possible. Through PACE, eligible* adults 55+ can receive all the services they need including medical care, rehabilitation services, home care, transportation, and more — all coordinated by a designated CenterLight PACE care team.

For older adults to benefit from this holistic care, they first need to meet specific eligibility requirements, including, but not limited to, proving eligibility for both Medicare and Medicaid.* Medicare and/or Medicaid must be maintained to continue all the CenterLight PACE services.

Securing Medicare and Medicaid

For many PACE participants, the process of securing Medicare and Medicaid can feel overwhelming. It often involves gathering medical records, understanding state-specific rules and submitting forms. If you’re an older adult or a caregiver, this process may be daunting. Many people face challenges in understanding which documents are required, how to complete forms accurately, or where to go for help.

For someone already dealing with health concerns, the last thing they need is added stress. It’s no surprise that so many individuals end up frustrated and confused. There are resources available. And our CenterLight team can help simplify the process.

Simplifying the Process

At CenterLight PACE, we believe that navigating the certification and recertification process should not be an additional burden on older adults or their families. We can help our participants in several ways:

1. Providing Clear, Step-by-Step Guidance
2. Assisting with Paperwork
3. Connecting You to Resources
4. Answering Your Questions
5. Reducing Stress
6. Medicaid Renewal

We’re Here to Help

Healthcare shouldn’t be a confusing maze—especially for older adults who already have so much to manage. At CenterLight PACE, our goal is to simplify the Medicare and Medicaid certification process for our participants. We have partnered with Senior Planning Service to facilitate Medicaid recertifications. They work closely with enrolled participants and their families along with our Social Work teams to ensure annual Medicaid renewal is facilitated timely with no disruption in services. We believe in providing the guidance, support, and resources that seniors need to navigate this crucial step in their healthcare journey. Together, we can make the process easier, allowing older adults to focus on what matters most: their health, independence, and happiness.

If you or a loved one are interested in PACE and struggling with Medicare and Medicaid certification, reach out to us today. We’re here to help!

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

This blog post is a collective effort of the Social Work Department at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

*See our Care Services page for a full list of eligibility requirements.

H3329 EntitlementsBlog 02202025
Updated January 6, 2024

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As winter ends and the cold weather slowly goes away, spring brings with it beautiful flowers, grasses, and other pollen producers. During the spring months, we can start enjoying outdoor activities such as gardening or walking in the park. But while most people look forward to this season, it may not be as enjoyable for those who suffer from seasonal allergies.

Below are some tips to help reduce the discomfort of allergies:

Look out for allergy symptoms such as red, watery, and itchy eyes; sneezing; congestion; and runny nose.

Consult with your medical provider. Let your doctor or other medical provider know what your symptoms are so they can advise you of proper treatment and prevention techniques. Medical providers can also recommend new and existing allergy treatments that you can try to reduce the effects of allergy-causing substances.

If you are taking allergy medications, take them as prescribed. Medication compliance is a very important part of remaining safe and healthy.

Make sure you note when high pollen count days occur. Remain indoors as much as possible when pollen counts are high. Keep doors and windows closed.

Do not touch your eyes outside and wash your hands before touching them indoors.

If possible, avoid plants that are considered worse for allergies. These include, but are not limited to:

• Flowers such as daisies, jasmine, and chrysanthemums
• Indoor plants such as ferns
• Shrubs such as cypress, juniper, and wisteria
• High-pollen producing trees such as olive, birch, pine, oak, elm, cedar, and walnut
• Bermuda grass, Johnson, orchard, and other varieties of grass

If your caregiver has pets and is visiting your home, tell them to wipe the pets down before they come in from outside. Pets' coats can be pollen and mold magnets.

For CenterLight Healthcare PACE Participants:

If you think you have allergies or are experiencing symptoms, your CenterLight PACE care team can help. Please let us know right away so that we can adjust your treatment plans. This includes recommending appropriate treatments based on your condition, and ensuring that any allergy regimen does not conflict with other medications or treatment.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

This blog post is written by Heather Ogando, MD, Vice President of Clinical Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

সূত্র:

• National Institute of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Best and Worst Flowers for People with Allergies, WebMD
• Pollen Library: Plants that Cause Allergies, Healthline

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Allergies
Updated March 20, 2025