Untitled Design (67)

Caregiver Burnout Resources

by Information & Resources

At Support, Inc., we understand how challenging it can be to find resources when dealing with burnout. We offer a variety of community-based services and care options for families and caregivers who have adult children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These options are also ideal for children with disabilities who are 18 and have previously been receiving services through the Children’s Extensive Support (CES) waiver. Just as no two people are the same, neither are their specific needs for in home care. Whether that’s as a full time resident in a host home, in a family home, or their own home or apartment, Support, Inc.’s spectrum of options and opportunities is designed to offer stability, progress and, of course, safety. Because each situation is unique, and we approach it in this way. Our staff will adapt their approach to each individual and family’s specific needs as our guide, while building a strong partnership for many years to come.

Taking into careful consideration each person’s individual needs, we work with each family and individual we serve to provide the best residential environment for everyone involved. Our residential services include the following three programs. The adults with disabilities programs we provide remain unmatched in the service industry. Colorado disability services are important to us, and we do everything we can to meet each family’s unique and specialized needs.

Host Home:

Our host home providers are committed to providing a nurturing, supportive and safe home atmosphere that allows for growth and discovery. Residents will have an opportunity to thrive in a secure, caring environment and be more engaged in the world around them.

Providers are pre-screened through background and reference checks, as well as home safety inspections. They also receive extensive, ongoing training in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field and have access to additional support and oversight from a residential program coordinator, nurse, clinician and public benefits specialist.

Reach out to us directly to learn more about caretaker pay.

Family Caregiver Program:

Through the Family Caregiver Act, family caregivers may be eligible for both financial and non-financial support. We are often asked “Can a family member get paid to be a caregiver” and the answer is YES. Colorado Family Caregivers have the option to choose between the employee and independent contractor route. The Support, Inc. team gives families maximum flexibility to create an individualized plan tailored to their needs. Families can:

  • Pay a family caregiver to provide care for a loved one
  • Hire a non-family caregiver to provide care
  • Cover or reimburse costs related to life events and needs outside of traditional staffing

We also provide:

  • Screening for non-family caregivers
  • Residential support and respite care options matched to the family’s level of need
  • Training for family and non-family care givers
  • Competitive pay rate, flexible budgets and access to our employee benefits plan and 24-hour support line
  • Support group for family caregivers

Please reach out to learn more about our care taker pay. We’re also happy to relay caretaker documentation samples.

Independent Apartment Living Program:

We help individuals find apartments that meets their unique needs. We also assist with general care and skills development, such as grocery shopping, medical appointments, transportation and provide a 24-hour support line. The assisted living for disabled young adults is something we pride ourselves on providing- it is truly a pleasure to work with individuals living independently in the community.

For more information on our residential services and the DD waiver in Colorado, please contact Brian Slusarz at info@supportinc.com or click here to complete our contact form. The disability caregiver in Colorado is not a position that we take lightly; great disability service providers in Colorado can be hard to come by. But our disability program for adults is absolutely excellent and we hope to hear from you soon! We’re very familiar with home and community based services. It would be an honor to provide disability services to you and your family.

For Caregiver Resources related to burnout, please follow the links below-

Calmerry

Mayo Clinic

Kaiser Permanente

Untitled Design (66)

BACPAC Trip Next Week!

by Information & Resources

Don’t forget- we have our Annual BACPAC Camping Trip coming up next week! We have a group site reserved June 25th-27th.

We’re still searching for additional volunteers to help! Even if you can’t attend, donating supplies would be greatly appreciated please. IE veggie trays, fruit trays, desserts, etc. Rich will keep a food list to help prevent duplicate items. Please reach out to Rich at Richard.Shaw@supportinc.com before you purchase anything, so he can chat with you about what’s needed 😊

We have a Campers List below!!

Thanks again to everyone that’s making this trip possible for those we serve. We couldn’t do it without you and looking forward to having so much fun soon!!

Campers List

Recommended: If you don’t have any of the items listed, please let us know 😊 We will have some extra supplies on hand.

Meals, Drinks (water, Gatorade), and Snacks provided

A Day

  1. Mediation (if needed)
  2. Sun Screen
  3. Bug Spray
  4. Light Loose clothing (Hat-if wanted)
  5. Sunglasses
  6. Extra Clothing (sandals) if going swimming: towel
  7. Light Jacket/Hoodie
  8. Individual refillable Water bottle (labeled with name)
  9. Lawn/camp chair
  10. Fishing gear (if needed)
  11. Personal supplies (if needed)

B Overnight: same as above +

  1. Tent
  2. Sleeping bag/Air mattress (if needed)
  3. Extra Blanket
  4. Flashlight/Lantern
  5. Extra clothing
  1. in case we get cooler weather at night
  2. Shoes
  3. Personal supplies (hygiene)

We warmly invite our individuals in services, their caregivers and providers. Please join us if you can!!

Food, drinks and snacks provided!!

The camping area will include

  • Large, covered area with tables and lighting at night
  • Rest room on site
  • Campground has showers available at main office
  • Running water on site
  • Electrical outlets on site

Activities will include:

  • Outdoor yard games
  • Board Games
  • Table games
  • Fishing
  • Music
  • Scavenger hunt
  • Tye Dye your own shirt
  • Camp Fire at night (weather dependent)
  • + much more!!!

Wednesday 26th is the boat day (this will also be the swim day)

  • Two pontoon boats have been reserved for the day
  • Groups will meet on at the marina to go out on the water for an hour ride
Untitled-Design-46-1300x731

Navigating IHSS and PASA: A Guide for Colorado Caregivers

by Information & Resources

Introduction

As a caregiver in Colorado, you play a crucial role in providing support and care to your loved ones with disabilities. Whether you’re caring for a child, an adult, or both, you may have heard about programs like IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) and PASA (Program Approved Service Agencies). In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at these valuable resources and how they can help you in your caregiving journey. So, let’s dive in!

Understanding IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services)

IHSS is a state-administered program designed to provide assistance to individuals with disabilities, allowing them to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. It’s a lifeline for caregivers and their loved ones, offering support in various aspects of daily life. Support, Inc. specifically works with those who qualify for the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver. We provide residential services to adults and their families over the age of 18.

  1. Eligibility for IHSS

To qualify for IHSS in Colorado, your loved one must meet certain eligibility criteria, including:

  • Having a disability or medical condition that requires assistance.
  • Residing in their own home or a family member’s home.
  • Demonstrating a need for in-home care services.
  1. Services Covered by IHSS

Once eligible, your loved one can access a range of services under IHSS, including:

  • Personal care services (bathing, dressing, grooming).
  • Homemaker services (meal preparation, light housekeeping).
  • Accompaniment to medical appointments.
  • Respite care for caregivers.
  • Assistance with mobility and transfers.
  1. How IHSS Benefits Caregivers

IHSS isn’t just about the care recipient; it also greatly benefits caregivers. By providing necessary support, IHSS:

  • Relieves caregivers of some caregiving responsibilities.
  • Allows caregivers to maintain employment or pursue education.
  • Reduces the financial burden associated with caregiving.
  • Enhances the overall quality of life for both the caregiver and care recipient.

Understanding PASA (Program Approved Service Agencies)

PASA is another valuable resource for caregivers in Colorado, offering a wide range of support services for individuals with disabilities. These services are aimed at improving the quality of life for both caregivers and care recipients.

  1. Services Offered by PASA

PASA agencies provide a variety of services, including:

  • In-home care and support.
  • Assistance with daily living activities.
  • Community integration and recreational activities.
  • Transportation services.
  • Behavior therapy and counseling.
  • Respite care for caregivers.
  1. Choosing the Right PASA Agency

When selecting a PASA agency for your loved one, it’s essential to consider:

  • The specific needs of the care recipient.
  • The agency’s reputation and track record.
  • Compatibility with your caregiving schedule.
  • Availability of trained and compassionate staff.

Combining IHSS and PASA: A Comprehensive Approach

Many caregivers in Colorado find that combining IHSS and PASA services offers a well-rounded approach to caregiving. By utilizing both resources, you can create a customized care plan that addresses your loved one’s unique needs and your own.

  1. How IHSS and PASA Work Together

IHSS and PASA can complement each other in various ways:

  • IHSS can provide basic personal care and homemaker services.
  • PASA can offer specialized services, therapy, and recreational activities.
  • Together, they provide a holistic support system.
  1. Planning and Coordination

As a caregiver, you’ll need to coordinate the services offered by IHSS and PASA. Here are some tips:

  • Communicate openly with both service providers.
  • Share your loved one’s goals and preferences.
  • Develop a comprehensive care plan that integrates both services.

Navigating the Application Process

Getting started with IHSS and PASA may seem daunting, but Colorado offers resources to help you through the process:

  1. Contact Your Local County Department

Reach out to your local county department or human services office to initiate the application process for IHSS. They can provide guidance on eligibility criteria and the application procedure.

  1. Research PASA Agencies

Explore the different PASA agencies in your area. Conduct interviews, ask for references, and make an informed decision based on your loved one’s needs.

  1. Seek Support

Don’t hesitate to seek support from caregiver support groups, online forums, or local advocacy organizations. These resources can offer valuable insights and emotional support.

Conclusion

As a caregiver in Colorado, you have access to a wealth of resources like IHSS and PASA to support your loved ones with disabilities. By understanding the eligibility criteria, services offered, and the potential for combining both programs, you can create a comprehensive caregiving plan that enhances the quality of life for both you and your care recipient. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey, and there are numerous organizations and support networks ready to assist you every step of the way. Caregiving is a rewarding endeavor, and with the right resources, it can be made more manageable and fulfilling for everyone involved.

_upscale _blur

Patrick Goes to Camp

by Information & Resources

When Patrick was younger, doctors told his family that he would never be able to show emotion or smile. As you can see from the photos, Patrick proved them wrong!

Every year since he was a kid, Patrick has attended Adam’s Camp. He knows everyone there and they all know him. It is one of Patrick’s favorite places to be, and it always puts a smile on his face. This year, he got to spend some time in the mountains and enjoy a gondola ride, go swimming with his favorite camp counselor, and even help make some music for everyone.

Patrick’s family caregivers, Kelly and Steve, know how important camp is to Patrick and always make sure everything is ready, so he is able to go each year. Kelly keeps photo albums of each year, and it is always so great looking through them and seeing how happy camp makes Patrick.

_autotone
Untitled Design (60)

Nurse Team Updates

by Information & Resources

Nursing Updates for March 2023

The Nurse Team is excited to announce a fully staffed team with the addition of Jamie Weidman! The nurse team consists or Morgan Struck RN, BSN, BA, Associate Director of Nursing, Heather Markham RN, BSN, BA Nurse Case Manager, Hannah Ivey, BS, Medical Coordinator, and Jamie Weidman, BS, Medical Coordinator.

Sleep Hygiene

 What is Sleep Hygiene?

‘Sleep hygiene’ is the term used to describe good sleep habits. Considerable research has gone into developing a set of guidelines and tips which are designed to enhance good sleeping, and there is much evidence to suggest that these strategies can provide long-term solutions to sleep difficulties. There are many medications which are used to treat insomnia, but these tend to be only effective in the short-term. Ongoing use of sleeping pills may lead to dependence and interfere with developing good sleep habits independent of medication, thereby prolonging sleep difficulties. Talk to your health professional about what is right for you, but we recommend good sleep hygiene as an important part of treating insomnia, either with other strategies such as medication or cognitive therapy or alone.

Sleep Hygiene Tips

1) Get regular. One of the best ways to train your body to sleep well is to go to bed and get up at more or less the same time every day, even on weekends and days off! This regular rhythm will make you feel better and will give your body something to work from.

2) Sleep when sleepy. Only try to sleep when you actually feel tired or sleepy, rather than spending too much time awake in bed.

3) Get up & try again. If you haven’t been able to get to sleep after about 20 minutes or more, get up and do something calming or boring until you feel sleepy, then return to bed and try again. Sit quietly on the couch with the lights off (bright light will tell your brain that it is time to wake up), or read something boring like the phone book. Avoid doing anything that is too stimulating or interesting, as this will wake you up even more.

4) Avoid caffeine & nicotine. It is best to avoid consuming any caffeine (in coffee, tea, cola drinks, chocolate, and some medications) or nicotine (cigarettes) for at least 4-6 hours before going to bed. These substances act as stimulants and interfere with the ability to fall asleep.

5) Avoid alcohol. It is also best to avoid alcohol for at least 4-6 hours before going to bed. Many people believe that alcohol is relaxing and helps them to get to sleep at first, but it actually interrupts the quality of sleep.

6) Bed is for sleeping. Try not to use your bed for anything other than sleeping and sex, so that your body comes to associate bed with sleep. If you use bed as a place to watch TV, eat, read, work on your laptop, pay bills, and other things, your body will not learn this connection.

7) No naps. It is best to avoid taking naps during the day, to make sure that you are tired at bedtime. If you can’t make it through the day without a nap, make sure it is for less than an hour and before 3pm.

8) Sleep rituals. You can develop your own rituals of things to remind your body that it is time to sleep – some people find it useful to do relaxing stretches or breathing exercises for 15 minutes before bed each night, or sit calmly with a cup of caffeine-free tea.

9) Bath time. Having a hot bath 1-2 hours before bedtime can be useful, as it will raise your body temperature, causing you to feel sleepy as your body temperature drops again. Research shows that sleepiness is associated with a drop in body temperature.

10) No clock-watching. Many people who struggle with sleep tend to watch the clock too much. Frequently checking the clock during the night can wake you up (especially if you turn on the light to read the time) and reinforces negative thoughts such as “Oh no, look how late it is, I’ll never get to sleep” or “it’s so early, I have only slept for 5 hours, this is terrible.”

11) Use a sleep diary. This worksheet can be a useful way of making sure you have the right facts about your sleep, rather than making assumptions. Because a diary involves watching the clock (see point 10) it is a good idea to only use it for two weeks to get an idea of what is going and then perhaps two months down the track to see how you are progressing.

12) Exercise. Regular exercise is a good idea to help with good sleep but try not to do strenuous exercise in the 4 hours before bedtime. Morning walks are a great way to start the day feeling refreshed!

13) Eat right. A healthy, balanced diet will help you to sleep well, but timing is important. Some people find that a very empty stomach at bedtime is distracting, so it can be useful to have a light snack, but a heavy meal soon before bed can also interrupt sleep. Some people recommend a warm glass of milk, which contains tryptophan, which acts as a natural sleep inducer.

14) The right space. It is very important that your bed and bedroom are quiet and comfortable for sleeping. A cooler room with enough blankets to stay warm is best, and make sure you have curtains or an eye mask to block out early morning light and earplugs if there is noise outside your room.

15) Keep daytime routine the same. Even if you have a bad night sleep and are tired it is important that you try to keep your daytime activities the same as you had planned. That is, don’t avoid activities because you feel tired. This can reinforce the insomnia.

This document is for information purposes only. Please refer to the full disclaimer and copyright statement available at https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au regarding the information from this website before making use of such information. See website www.cci.health.wa.gov.au for more handouts and resources.

Joey Pic

Joey Celebrates One Year At His Job

by Information & Resources

Congratulations to Joey for his one year of working at Century Boulder! Joey started at Century as an usher last year. He would help clean the theaters after the movies. After doing that for a while, he expanded to working the box office and selling tickets. Joey is very proud of himself for getting more responsibilities at work, and he practices counting change at home so he can continue to improve his skills.

Joey’s next goal at work is to get to work at the concession stand and help sell popcorn and drinks. Joey’s dad has noticed that since Joey has started his job, there has been an increase in Joey’s independence, confidence, and social skills. Joey says his favorite thing about his job is getting to interact with the customers and coworkers. For his birthday, he was able to bring cupcakes and celebrate with all his coworkers, and he said that was his favorite part of the whole week.

When Joey is not at work you will find him hanging out with Dad and living his best life!