#United States #Tucson #Senior Helpers #CHAP Certification

Senior Helpers of Tucson Sets a New Standard in In-Home Senior Care

In a groundbreaking accomplishment, Senior Helpers of Tucson and Southeast Arizona has distinguished itself as the first private duty in-home care provider in the United States to receive the CHAP (Community Health Accreditation Partners) Age-Friendly Care at Home certification. This achievement is a testament to their commitment to providing exemplary care for seniors in the community.

On December 13, 2024, Senior Helpers of Tucson officially joined the ranks of organizations recognized for their age-friendly practices in home care. This certification is more than just a badge; it represents a fundamental approach focused on high-quality care tailored to the specific needs of older adults. According to Teresa Harbour, COO of CHAP, their proactive measures and innovative programs have played a crucial role in this achievement. The use of the LIFE Profile tool for minimizing hospitalization risks and the Senior Gems program, aimed at improving dementia care, are just a few highlights of their commitment.

What is Age-Friendly Care at Home?

Age-Friendly Care at Home is a revolutionary certification that addresses the increasing demand for quality care by incorporating a person-centered approach. The framework emphasizes four pivotal areas, known as the 4Ms: 1. What Matters, 2. Medication, 3. Mentation, and 4. Mobility. Each element is designed to ensure that care is holistic and caters to the individual's wishes and physical wellbeing:

• - What Matters: This principle empowers clients by placing them at the heart of their care decisions and involving them in setting personal goals.
• - Medication: The focus is on age-friendly medication management that complements the individual's needs and does not hinder their personal goals.
• - Mentation: This aspect targets the recognition and management of mental health issues like depression and dementia, ensuring that emotional wellbeing is prioritized.
• - Mobility: Encouraging safe movement among older adults helps maintain their independence and supports their engagement with daily activities that matter to them.

To earn the CHAP certification, Senior Helpers implemented the 4Ms Framework across their daily operations and client interactions, showcasing their dedication to comprehensive and responsive care.

Elevated Care Standards at Senior Helpers

In addition to being certified, Senior Helpers of Tucson has dedicated itself to raising the standards for senior care through several pioneering programs. Here are key initiatives that highlight their commitment:

1. LIFE Profile Assessment Tool: This data-driven tool helps identify clients’ risks of hospitalization, enabling proactive measures to be put in place for better health outcomes.
2. Senior Gems® Program: This unique program offers strategies tailored to support individuals suffering from different stages of dementia, ensuring that their individuality is respected and cared for.
3. Center of Excellence: An innovative training space designed to simulate home environments, this center allows caregivers to acquire practical skills and provide high-quality care tailored to individual senior needs.

Together, these programs contribute to a comprehensive care system that ensures seniors receive the highest standards of service.

Commitment to Community Care

Owner Tehjan Prendiville, RN-BC, expressed immense pride in being the first franchise to achieve this significant certification. This milestone reflects their ongoing dedication and compassion toward enhancing the quality of life for seniors throughout Tucson and Southeast Arizona. The organization specializes in various services, from chronic disease management to end-of-life care, demonstrating a holistic approach to senior health.

For those interested in learning more about the comprehensive services provided by Senior Helpers of Tucson and Southeast Arizona, further information is available on their official website.

As an industry leader, Senior Helpers continues to pave the way for better quality care, setting a new standard for in-home senior services and prioritizing the health and happiness of older adults in their community.