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

Supporting Families & Caregivers of Patients with Serious Illness

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health: Comprehensive Support for Families and Caregivers of Patients with Serious Illnesses.

When a loved one faces a serious illness, the journey can feel overwhelming for families and caregivers. At Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, we are committed to easing that burden by offering expert care and unwavering support. Our compassionate team of experienced nurses, physical therapists, and social workers is available day and night to provide guidance, answer questions, and address any concerns. Caregiver support from Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

“Our only regret is that people don’t reach out to us sooner, often waiting until they’re at a crisis point,” said Aubrey Engle, Executive Director of Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “We want families to know we’re here to help from the earliest stages of a diagnosis. Our goal is to focus on helping patients live comfortably and fully while providing caregivers with the resources and support they need.”

Pemi-Baker’s holistic approach prioritizes not just the physical health of patients but also their emotional, social, and mental well-being. Our team works closely with patients, families, and healthcare providers to develop personalized care plans that adapt as needs change. Whether it’s pain management, physical therapy to maintain mobility, or emotional support through social work services, we ensure every aspect of care is covered.

For caregivers, we offer essential resources and guidance, recognizing the immense emotional and physical toll that caregiving can take. Our professionals provide education on managing symptoms, medication administration, and coping strategies, ensuring caregivers feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Engle emphasized the importance of early intervention: “By connecting with us sooner, families can take full advantage of our services, which allow them to focus on what truly matters—cherishing moments with their loved ones.”

With decades of experience serving the region, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is trusted by families to deliver high-quality, compassionate care. From providing answers to immediate questions to offering long-term support, we stand by your side throughout the journey.

To learn more about how Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health can help your family, visit www.pbhha.org or call us at 603-536-2232.

Who Cares for the Caregivers?

On a recent (March 2, 2024) episode of the TV news “CBS Saturday Morning”, veteran correspondent Barry Petersen did a feature piece on the growing phenomenon of family members and friends caring for needful loved ones in their homes. The piece began by focusing on how the COVID pandemic heightened the need for caregivers themselves to have assistance and support. The TV story can be viewed online by Googling “Barry Petersen”.  Petersen himself came to the concern through his own experience, having cared for his wife until her death. He recounted his experience in a book entitled “JAN’S STORY: A love lost to the long goodbye of Alzheimer’s”, available through Amazon.Jans Story book cover

Petersen’s TV feature story interviewed persons engaged with DUET, a Phoenix-based organization committed to providing support to family/at-home caregivers. They do this locally in their area by offering in-person support groups as well as virtual support groups via ZOOM which now extend to fifteen states, Canada, and the Navajo Nation. Their website is duetaz.org. The feature included comments by DUET facilitators as well as group participants.

Some of the statistics are quite surprising. Here in our country, 38 million citizens are involved in family/home-based caring. The financial equivalent of their unpaid work (if it were done by nurses and other healthcare workers) is $600 billion dollars. Family/home-based caregivers often suffer from the stressors of isolation, loneliness, and isolation which can impact them physically as much as would smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Another significant stressor is “ambiguous loss”, caused by the physical presence but psychological absence of the one being care for. The caregiver has no way of knowing how long their caregiving responsibility will last since the patient’s end of life cannot be definitely predicted. The “not knowing” becomes a test of emotional and physical endurance since there is no sense of closure. Add to this the very human (and understandable) reactions of fear, frustration, anger, and guilt and you have a growing population of people who are emotionally hurting.

To assist caregivers in our area, PEMI-BAKER HOSPICE & HOME HEALTH offers an in-person support group which meets on the first Wednesday of every month. The gathering is held in the Conference Room at the agency’s Boulder Point site which can be accessed in the blue/gray building at Health Place. The entrance is right near the beautiful little gazebo and solar panels. Meetings begin at 10:00am and conclude no later than 11:30am. There is no cost to attend. Sessions are facilitated by Guy Tillson, Pemi-Baker’s Hospice Spiritual Counselor and Bereavement Coordinator. Interested persons are asked to pre-register by contacting him at gtillson@pbhha.org or by calling the agency ay 603 536-2232.

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

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.

The Challenges of Caregiving and Support Services Near You!

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Addresses the Challenges of Caregiving and Extends Support Services.

Caring for an older adult is a profoundly rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges that can be demanding, difficult, and stressful. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health recognizes the importance of supporting caregivers in their journey and is committed to providing resources and assistance to make the caregiving experience more manageable.Caregiving support groups Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

To help caregivers cope with the demands of their role, Pemi-Baker encourages individuals to reach out for support. Whether it’s talking to a trusted family member or friend or seeking counseling from a mental health professional, having a support system is crucial. Pemi-Baker recognizes the need for in-person support and invites caregivers to join their support group, held every first Wednesday of the month from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This group offers a space for caregivers to connect, share experiences, and gain valuable insights from others who understand the challenges they face.

Taking breaks and prioritizing self-care are essential aspects of caregiving. Pemi-Baker suggests that caregivers consider asking another family member or friend to step in, hiring an aide for a few hours a week, or enrolling the older person in an adult day care program to ensure they have the necessary support.

In a significant expansion of services, Pemi-Baker is pleased to announce the introduction of volunteer services for home health patients and their families. While volunteer services were previously available only for patients on hospice care, this extension aims to provide additional assistance to individuals receiving home health services. For more information about these volunteer services, please contact Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health at 603-536-2232.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health remains dedicated to supporting caregivers and enhancing the quality of life for older adults. By offering a range of services and resources, the organization aims to make the caregiving journey more manageable and fulfilling.

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.

Preventing Caregiver Burnout

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Offers Tips and Resources for Those Caring for Loved Ones with Dementia

As the number of people living with dementia continues to increase, so does the number of individuals providing care for them. Caregiving for someone with dementia can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be incredibly challenging and exhausting. Caregiver burnout is a common phenomenon among those who care for individuals with dementia, and it can lead to serious physical and mental health issues. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to supporting caregivers and promoting their well-being. We offer the following tips to help caregivers avoid burnout when caring for someone with dementia:

  1. Take care of your own health: Caregivers often put their own health needs aside while caring for their loved ones. However, it’s essential to prioritize your own health by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Taking care of yourself will help you be a better caregiver in the long run.
  2. Seek support: Caring for someone with dementia can be isolating. It’s important to seek out support from friends, family, or a support group. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health provides monthly support groups for caregivers that allow them to share their experiences and receive support from others who are going through similar situations. A caregiver can attend in person or via zoom from the comfort of their home.
  3. Take breaks: It’s essential to take breaks from caregiving to recharge and rejuvenate. This can include going for a walk, reading a book, or spending time with friends. If your loved one is on Pemi-Baker’s hospice services, their hospice volunteers offer respite care services that allow caregivers to take a break while ensuring their loved ones are receiving quality care.
  4. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  5. Stay organized: Keeping track of appointments, medications, and other caregiving responsibilities can be overwhelming. There are many online tools and educational classes to help caregivers stay organized and manage their responsibilities effectively.

At Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, we recognize the importance of supporting caregivers and promoting their well-being. We encourage caregivers to take advantage of the resources available to them and to prioritize their own health and well-being. Together, we can create a healthier, happier caregiving experience for both caregivers and those they care for.Guy Tillson, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Chaplain, Plymouth, NH

Please contact Guy Tillson, Chaplain at info@pbhha.org or by calling 603-536-2232 to pre-register for the Free Caregiver Support Group. The Caregiver support group meets the first Wednesday of every month from 10am-11:30am.

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

Celebrating the Caregivers in Our Lives

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health offers monthly support groups!

Though National Caregiver Day is February 17th this year, we think every day is a good day to celebrate caregivers around the globe. We have a few ideas to inspire you as you take time to give back to the people who care for others all year long. We also want to invite any caregiver to our free Caregiver Support groups the first Wednesday of every month.

Who Are Family Caregivers?

Nearly 53 million people in the United States are providing some type of unpaid care for a family member or child. This means you probably have at least one person in your life who is an informal or family caregiver.

Challenges for Caregivers

All caregivers, whether informal or professional, face similar challenges. For example, caregivers are at high risk for caregiver fatigue or burnout. This is a condition that is rooted in stress and can result in serious health consequences ranging from high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, or increased physical illness.

Caregivers typically receive less help than they need to stay as healthy as possible, and they often put the needs of their loved ones ahead of their own. Unfortunately, this means that informal caregivers often skip their own annual doctor appointments or preventative care because they are overwhelmed coordinating care for their loved ones.

Gifts for Caregivers

There are many ways to celebrate a caregiver in your life. Even something small can go a long way and encourage them for days or months to come. For example:

  • An encouraging note or card telling them that you notice the hard work they do for others
  • A gift card to a local coffee shop so they can pick up their favorite treat
  • A subscription to a meal delivery service like Blue Apron or HelloFresh
  • A gift card to a local spa for a haircut, massage, or facial
  • A subscription to their favorite magazine so they can have one ready for when they have a quiet moment

Beyond traditional gifts, perhaps the most meaningful thing you can give a caregiver is the gift of time to themselves. You can offer to make life a bit easier and relieve some of their daily burdens by:

  • Making homemade meals they can freeze and then defrost when they are too exhausted to cook
  • Driving their loved one to a medical appointment
  • Grocery shopping for the week and dropping off the items at their home or at the home of their loved one
  • Taking their children to/from sporting or school events
  • Visiting with their loved one for a few hours so the caregiver can get out of the home and run errands, grab a coffee, or take a nap

Most caregivers feel quite alone, and your acknowledgment of their work, along with tangible help, can make them feel supported.

Here at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, we honor every caregiver we have the chance to work with daily. From the professional and well-trained caregivers, to the family members and friends who tirelessly advocate for their loved ones, we celebrate you.

If you’re looking for support, we offer caregiver conversation, education and support at our free meetings the first Wednesday of every month. You will be able to connect with others, learn more about the ups and downs of at home caregiving, and discuss any issues related to the monthly topic. For more information about our meetings please email Guy Tillson: gtillson@pbhha.org or call 603-536-2232Caregiver Support Groups at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

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

Celebrating the Holidays While on Palliative or Hospice Care

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health teams help the Caregiver too!

The holiday season can be a difficult season for family caregivers. When your loved one is living with a serious illness, you want to carry on traditions with friends and family but the grief and responsibility of caring for them can greatly diminish the usual holiday cheer. Spending the holidays with a loved one receiving palliative or hospice care is a balancing act between maintaining traditions and not overstimulating.

Caregiving may include lifting, bathing, delivering meals, taking loved ones to doctor visits, handling difficult behaviors, and managing medications and family conflicts. This level of care can result in lost work hours, high stress, and serious declines in physical and mental health. If you are caring for someone receiving palliative or hospice care, however, it is important to know that the Pemi-Baker team will help you in this challenging role.

Palliative care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. This type of care is focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of an illness. As your loved one’s illness advances, they transition into hospice care near the end of life. Pemi-Baker’s goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family during both stages.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Caregiver Support

  • They will keep you informed. Knowing what to expect can help a caregiver prepare appropriately for the ups and downs of an illness. Families are invited to every meeting so that everyone is on the same page exploring goals, treatment options and pain management.
  • They will equip you with practical tools and resources. The Pemi-Baker team will give you tips for taking care of your loved one, connect you with community resources, and make sure that you are able to take care of your own physical and emotional health. Attending Pemi-Baker’s free caregiver support group on the first Wednesday every month will provide you with conversation, education and support.
  • They will help you deal with stress too. Your loved one may be feeling frustrated and stressed. You may be feeling the same way. Our specialists take the time to listen to patients and caregivers, to answer their questions, hear their frustrations and help them take the necessary steps to feeling healthier and more focused in their roles.

During the holidays it’s important to continue traditions that are important to your family, however, overstimulating patients with lots of people, sounds and activity can cause your loved one to tire quickly and feel uncomfortable.

Don’t forget to decorate-There’s nothing like favorite lights, cookies baking and ugly sweaters to make someone’s personal space feel more festive.

Celebrate the service– If a religious service is an important part of a patient’s normal celebrations, perhaps the family could celebrate with them by performing a worship at home. As always, you can reach out for spiritual support from our Chaplain, Guy Tillson, MDiv, MA.

Avoid Over-stimulation– Remember that the patient might not be able to keep up with the pace of a regular celebration. The family should make sure that they are not overwhelmed by people who would like to see them, especially since a break in routine can be upsetting for dementia patients.

Prepare for guests-If you are having lots of visitors over to open presents or share memories, you should take steps to ensure that decorations, accommodations and activities don’t interfere with the space, equipment or care that are necessary for patient care.

We should do our best to honor favorite holiday traditions, but remember to ask the patient how they would like you to incorporate their favorite songs, movies and rituals. The patient may prefer a lower key celebration. Whatever you decide, the staff at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health wish you and your family a Happy and Healthy New Year!

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

Palliative & Hospice Care Teams Helping Those with Sarcoma Cancer

July is National Sarcoma Cancer Awareness Month

July is National Sarcoma Cancer Awareness month and Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health (PBH&HH) would like to shed some light on this cancer and how their Palliative & Hospice team can help those affected. Sarcomas are cancers that arise from the cells that hold the body together. These could be cells related to muscles, nerves, bones, fat, tendons, cartilage, or other forms of ‘connective tissues.’ There are hundreds of different kinds of sarcomas, which come from different kinds of cells.

According to the Sarcoma Foundation of America, sarcoma accounts for 1% of adult cancers diagnosed in the United States and 15%-20% of childhood cancers. Every cancer treatment can cause side effects or changes to your body and how you feel. For many reasons, people do not experience the same side effects even when they are given the same treatment for the same type of cancer. This can make it hard to predict how you will feel during treatment.

As you prepare to start cancer treatment, it is normal to fear treatment-related side effects. It may help to know that your health care team will work to prevent and relieve side effects. Doctors call this part of cancer treatment “palliative care” or “supportive care.” It is an important part of your treatment plan, regardless of your age or the stage of disease. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home health offers free consultations to explain the benefits of having a Palliative Care team on your side. This can be done over the phone or in person.

Coping with physical side effects

Talk with your Pemi-Baker Palliative health care team regularly about how you are feeling. If they know how you are feeling, they can find ways to relieve or manage your side effects to help you feel more comfortable and potentially keep any side effects from worsening.

Sometimes, physical side effects can last after treatment ends. Doctors call these long-term side effects. They call side effects that occur months or years after treatment, late effects. Treating long-term side effects and late effects is an important part of survivorship care.

Hospice care for cancer patients is a special kind of care that provides comfort, support, and dignity at the end of life, typically when you or your loved one’s life expectancy is six months or less. Hospice cares for the whole person, addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.

Coping with emotional and social effects

You can have emotional and social effects after a cancer diagnosis. This may include dealing with difficult emotions, such as sadness, anxiety, or anger, or managing your stress level. Sometimes, people find it difficult to express how they feel to their loved ones. Some have found that talking to PBH&HH’s social workers or chaplain can help them develop more effective ways of coping and talking about cancer.

Caring for a loved one with cancer

Family members and friends often play an important role in taking care of a person with sarcoma. This is called being a caregiver. Caregivers can provide physical, practical, and emotional support to the patient, even if they live far away.

Caregivers may have a range of responsibilities on a daily or as-needed basis, including:

  • Providing support and encouragement
  • Talking with the health care team
  • Giving medications
  • Helping manage symptoms and side effects
  • Coordinating medical appointments
  • Providing a ride to and from appointments
  • Assisting with meals
  • Helping with household chores
  • Handling insurance and billing issues

It is important to care for yourself as well as your loved one with cancer. Caregiver burnout is very common but PBH&HH can help through their free ‘Caregiver conversation, education & support group’ held the first Wednesday of every month from 10am-11:30am. You can join the support group in person at their facility on Boulder Point Drive or by Zoom. Pre-registration is required through Guy Tillson, Chaplain at gtillson@pbhha.org or by calling 603-536-2232. We hope you will join us!

With over 55 years of experience, serving clients from 29 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and Community Programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver Support Groups, Grief and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask-A-Pemi-Baker Nurse senior center programs. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. 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

 

Summer Safety Tips For Seniors

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seniors are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and injury. When we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature because older adults do not sweat as much as younger adults, and sweat is the body’s most important heat-regulating mechanism. Older adults also store fat differently, which can further complicate heat regulation in the body.

This can cause issues in the summer because when the outside temperature rises, so does the body’s internal temperature. Which is why seniors suffer from heat stroke in the summer more often than younger people.

Therefore, seniors have health risks that need to be monitored, especially in the heat of the summer. Below are tips to keep seniors safe and healthy in the rising temperatures of the summer months.

Stay hydrated.

Drink eight or more glasses of water and/or fruit juices every day to stay hydrated. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages such as soda, coffee and tea as they can leave you dehydrated quickly. Increase your intake if you are doing any physical activity or if the weather is particularly hot.

Stay indoors during extreme heat.

In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation slows down and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. Keep in mind, the sun is the most intense between 10 am and 4 pm. If you can, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and the evening.

Stay in an air-conditioned place.

Air-conditioning is important when it is hot and humid outside. If you do not have air-conditioning in your home, go somewhere that does. A movie theater, the mall, a friend or family member’s home or a community senior center are all good options. You can contact your local Area Agency on Aging for help finding a local cooling center during extended periods of extreme heat.

Know the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

The best clothing to wear in the summertime is loose-fitting and lightweight clothes in natural, breathable fabrics like cotton. Dress in light colors that will reflect the sun and heat instead of darker colors that will attract them.

Protect your skin and eyes.

Wearing sunglasses can block your eyes from harmful UV rays and protect your vision. When outdoors, protect your skin from damage by wearing hats, sunglasses and a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher and that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation.

Know the side effects of your prescriptions.

Some medications can cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Look over your medications and talk with your doctor about any concerns or questions you have.

Know the early signs of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, hyperthermia, etc.

Signs to look for may include disorientation, dry skin, excessive tiredness, headache, lethargy, nausea, a flushed face, high body temperature, rapid pulse, dizziness and confusion. Take immediate action if you feel any symptoms coming on.

Maintain communication with friends, family, caregivers and emergency contacts.

Prepare a list of emergency phone numbers and place them in an easy-to-access area in case needed.

As a caregiver or loved one, you can help seniors beat the heat by:

  • Visiting at least twice a day.
  • Watching for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
  • Making sure they have access to air conditioning.
  • Helping them limit their exposure to the sun.
  • Making sure they are getting enough fluids to keep them hydrated and have a normal body temperature.

Pemi-Baker’s Ask-A-Nurse: A collaboration with the Grafton County Senior Citizens Council (GCSCC)

If you have questions or need a place to cool off why not visit your local senior center? In addition to virtual and in-person activities and meals offered by the 8 senior centers of GCSCC, three are hosting Pemi-Baker Hospice and Home Health’s ‘Ask-A-Nurse’ program. This is a free service manned by a Pemi-Baker Registered Nurse and/or Social Worker where you can get your blood pressure checked, ask medical questions, fill our your advance directive forms or just swing by and say hi!

Ask-A-Nurse Days & Times:

Mondays 11:30-1pm @ Plymouth Regional Senior Center-8 Depot Street, Plymouth

Wednesdays 11:30-1pm @ Lin-wood Area Services- 194 Pollard Road, Lincoln

Every Third Thursday 11:30-12:30 @ Littleton Area Senior Center- 77 Riverglen Lane, Littleton

With over 55 years of experience, serving clients from 29 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and Community Programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver Support Groups and Grief and Bereavement Support Groups. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. 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

Celebrate Caregivers!

What would we do without caregivers? Not everyone is cut out to be a caregiver. It takes a special person to dedicate their time and energy to help another. Caregivers provide help with daily essentials along with the physical and emotional support needed by our loved ones late in life. But do we ever stop to take care of the caregiver? How often do we say “thank you” for being there for our loved ones, our clients, and the most defenseless in society? When do we take the time to ask how the caregiver is doing? Care-giving can be a gratifying experience but can also cause a great deal of stress. While caring for and focusing on another, a caregiver can neglect their own health, causing harm over time. Therefore, it is essential to provide tools and resources to help manage stress. If a caregiver doesn’t care for themselves, they can’t care for someone else.

One way we can help is to spend a day honoring caregivers. On the third Friday of February, we can celebrate a group of people who selflessly provide support to our aging loved ones with patience and kindness. The Providers Association for Home Health & Hospice Agencies, PAHHHA, started National Caregiver Day in 2015 to recognize a profession that gives so much and often goes unappreciated. Caregivers spend time taking care of the essential needs of our vulnerable family members. A caregiver is anyone who provides help to another person in need and can be a family caregiver or a professional caregiver. According to the Mayo Clinic, 1 in 3 adults in the United States provides care as an informal caregiver to another adult.

Make sure you take time on February 18th to honor the people who care for our most vulnerable population. For example, you could give cards with encouraging words of appreciation or a small gift to show gratitude. You can also honor caregivers on social media using the hashtag #nationalcaregiversday and let people know what makes them special. Here are some suggestions for a small gift to the caregivers in your life:

  • Spa Gift Card
  • Scented hand lotion or Candles
  • Baked Goods
  • Take them to lunch

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to show appreciation. Caregivers make a difference in the lives of others every single day so let’s take one day & make a difference in their lives. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health offers FREE Caregiver support groups the first Wednesday of each month from 10-11:30am via Zoom. You will be able to connect with others, learn more about tools and resources to cope with the natural ebb and flow of your emotions and discuss any issues related to the monthly topic. Contact Guy Tillson to register at info@pbhha.org or call 603-536-2232.

With over 55 years of experience, serving clients from 29 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and Community Programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver Support Groups and Grief and Bereavement Support Groups. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. 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

Reap the Rewards of Volunteering!

Join Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health’s Team of Hospice Volunteers.

Hospice volunteers know that helping others at the end of their lives is tremendously rewarding. Being part of a hospice team gives you the profound privilege of bringing comfort, peace and care to patients, caregivers, and their families during their transitional journey. Volunteers feel a greater appreciation of life itself, a deeper understanding of what’s truly important, and an authentic sense of fulfillment.

Why volunteer?

As a hospice volunteer, you become part of a person’s life when you are needed most. That sense of fulfillment is priceless. Also, without caring volunteers like you, there would be no Medicare-certified hospice programs. Medicare law requires that 5% of hospice care hours are provided by volunteers.

Who volunteers?

People just like you. Adults, young adults, and in some cases mature teens from all backgrounds, experiences, and cultures. Effective hospice volunteers embrace the fact that their role is one of compassionate service.

What skills do I need?

Most agencies like Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, will provide the training and orientation you need to feel confident and comfortable with whatever level of support you choose to give. Training can include things such as grief counseling, boundaries between the volunteer, the patient and the family, and emergency medical support.

Do you love music? Sharing stories? Playing cards? Whatever passions, talents, or interests you bring can also be valuable assets. The most precious asset, of course, is simply caring.

What does a hospice volunteer do?

Ultimately, hospice care is about providing patients, caregivers, and families with the most comfortable and compassionate end-of-life experience possible. Your responsibilities will vary. In many cases it’s as simple as companionship. Sitting and talking. Or just listening. Or playing a patient’s favorite music.

You may also assist patients with tasks they can no longer perform for themselves. It may include anything from light household chores to lending emotional support to the patient’s family during this difficult time.

If you prefer to work in a different capacity, some hospice providers have opportunities to help with administrative office tasks.

What is the time commitment?

As with most things around hospice volunteering, your commitment can vary. It depends a lot on the time you’re willing to commit and the needs of the patients you are matched with. Some volunteers work an hour a week, some 2 hours each month.

I’m interested; how do I pre-register?

The next FREE VIRTUAL Hospice Volunteer training will start Tuesday, February 8th and run 5 weeks through March 8th.  All the training is done via two hour zoom meetings in the comfort of your own home. Contact Shannon Cassidy, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health’s Hospice Volunteer Coordinator at 603-536-2232 or email her at scassidy@pbhha.org.  For more information visit Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health’s Events Calendar.

With over 50 years of experience, serving clients from 29 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and Community Programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver Support Groups and Grief and Bereavement Support Groups. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. 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

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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