Since March 2020, social isolation has been a major problem for millions of Americans, especially those who were already lonely before the pandemic due to health-related issues. Lonely people experience emotional pain, and can negatively impact their sense of connection with their community and loved ones. Chronic loneliness can create feelings of distrust or even paranoia, and can be associated with higher risks for:
 


The first step in helping protect oneself against the negative effects of social isolation is self-care. Exercising, eating a healthy diet, getting ample sleep, and enjoying hobbies can help manage stress and increase mental and physical fitness. It’s also important to stay engaged with others through activities, as this creates a sense of purpose. For many, volunteering create a sense of mission and purpose in life, which is linked to better overall health. You or a loved one can stay connected in the following ways:

  • Start a new hobby, restart an old one, or take a 101 class to meet people with similar interests.
  • Schedule time to communicate with people, whether it's in person, over the phone, or online. Sharing your feelings helps nurture and strengthen relationships.
  • Consider adopting a pet. Animals can be very comforting and may also lower stress and blood pressure.
  • Stay physically active and include group exercise, such as joining a walking club or working out with a friend. Adults should aim for at least a couple hours of activity each week.
  • Get to know your neighbors better.
  • Join a faith-based organization to enrich your spiritual side and engage with others through activities and events.
  • Join a cause and volunteer in your community.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

When the Going Gets Tough…

These past few years have presented a variety of challenges to the clients we serve and our health care providers. From a health crisis unlike anything we’ve dealt with before to an economic crisis worse than anything in the last 40 years to global political instability, tensions are high everywhere.

That’s what makes me so proud of the team we’ve assembled. In the midst of a crisis, they see an opportunity to comfort others. When the unthinkable happens, they think quickly on their feet and proactively respond. The future is more uncertain than it has been in our lifetimes, but there is one thing I know I can always count on: our team gets the job done.

Sometimes this job is physically demanding, other days it can be a mental drain. But every single day, our clients smile when they see their PHHC friend walking up to the door. And that’s what keeps me smiling through the hard times.

Keep your heads up and your thoughts positive.

-Sanjay Arora
 

INDUSTRY NEWS
 

American Rescue Plan Funding Extension

 

On June 3, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that states would have an additional year to use funding from the American Rescue Plan to both enhance and expand home- and community-based services. This is big news for home-based care providers, as the federal government is committing to further and prolonged support for HCBS in general.
 

New Home Care Training Program

 

To better address the staffing challenges facing the home health care industry, Axxess has expanded and redesigned its Axxess Training and Certification Program. The program creates a standard for home health care and hospice industry knowledge and competency.

SleepX
Breakthrough

 

SleepX, a subsidiary of AppYea, announced its planned clinical trial of the SleepX PRO application. SleepX Pro is designed to diagnose sleep apnea using only a smartphone, requiring no physical contact with the subject. This clinical trial is the first step toward applying for FDA approval of the first-of-its-kind contactless detection of sleep apnea to be performed through the artificial intelligence analysis of breathing during sleep.