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Managing Health Effectively
Chronic Disease Management
Living with a chronic condition like heart failure, diabetes, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can make everyday life feel overwhelming. Managing medications, monitoring symptoms, and maintaining healthy routines requires constant attention — and sometimes, expert support.
COPD Care at Home
COPD makes breathing challenging, but home health services provide essential support. Home health aides assist with proper inhaler and nebulizer use, while nurses educate patients on warning signs, such as increased coughing or phlegm. Physical therapists teach safe exercises and breathing techniques to maintain lung function. With the right support, COPD patients can slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
Diabetes Care at Home
Managing diabetes requires regular blood sugar checks, medication adherence, and a balanced diet. Home health aides assist with glucose monitoring, medication reminders, and preparing diabetic-friendly meals. Nurses provide education on lifestyle changes, foot care, and recognizing warning signs, reducing risks of blood sugar fluctuations. With home health support, patients can better manage their condition.
Heart Failure Support at Home
Heart failure can cause symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, and fluid retention, making daily activities challenging. Home health aides help with medication reminders, appointments, meal prep for a heart-healthy diet, and monitoring vital signs. Early detection of warning signs can prevent hospital readmissions. Nurses educate patients on diet, exercise, and compliance with medical advice, empowering them to manage their health effectively.
About Us
Trusted Home Health Care Services
RealityCare Nursing and Therapy is a trusted provider of home health care services across Chicago, Orland Park, Oak Park, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Lombard, and Tinley Park, IL. Established in 2004, we are licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health and certified by Medicare.
Our compassionate team of experienced professionals delivers personalized, high-quality care tailored to each individual’s needs. At RealityCare, we take great pride in providing professional services with dedication, respect, and maximum care.
Focused Specialized Support
Specialty Care Program
Our COPD Management Program is a multidisciplinary approach that includes:
- Comprehensive initial assessment
- Focus on early symptom detection
- Patient and caregiver education for home self-care
- Medication review and education
- Guidance on treatment compliance and adherence
- Nutritional education and support
- Rehabilitation team to restore optimal function
- Interventional symptom management
COPD Care Evaluation
COPD Program Evaluation Needed If:
Physical therapy and occupational therapy, though often confused, have distinct roles, each targeting different aspects of recovery and daily functioning. Understanding the unique goals and methods of each can help determine which is right for you.
You may need a COPD Management Program evaluation if You:
- Have recently been hospitalized for COPD exacerbation
- Have utilized the emergency department or urgent care center for after-hours management of COPD symptoms
- Have to be routinely scheduled for unplanned or “fit-in” office visits
- Have recently started (or required a change in) oxygen therapy
- Present at an office visit with poorly controlled dyspnea
- Require assistance in managing secretions or airway clearance
- Have experienced a change in medication with a recent office visit
- Need education in medication management
- Are poorly compliant with aerosolized/nebulized medications
- Experience frequent exacerbation of COPD symptoms
- Have multiple co-morbid conditions that impact the COPD treatment plan
- Have respiratory symptoms that impair their ability to safely ambulate
- Have respiratory symptoms that impact their ability to perform routine activities of daily living
The elderly population uses more medications than any other group and are more prone to taking them incorrectly. Physicians frequently see elderly patients who misuse respiratory medications. It’s estimated that up to 70% of patients with chronic respiratory conditions use inhaled medications improperly, with both overuse and underuse being equally common.
Patients managing COPD may encounter a variety of challenges, including:
- Respiratory infections
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Lung cancer
- Depression
Our specialized COPD Management Program supports patients in following recommended treatments and helps prevent or manage many associated conditions.
The health improvements and education provided through the program play a crucial role in helping patients achieve a better quality of life.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of services do home health aides provide for chronic disease management?
Home health aides assist with managing chronic diseases by helping with personal care and activities of daily living (ADLs), providing medication reminders, monitoring weight and vital signs, educating patients about symptoms and necessary lifestyle changes, and coaching them in the daily management of their condition.
Will my insurance cover home health care services?
Most major health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, offer coverage for home health care services. This typically includes part-time skilled nursing, physical therapy, assistance with daily living activities from a home health aide, and necessary medical equipment. To understand the details of your coverage, contact your insurance provider directly.
How do I qualify for home health care services?
Home medical care typically requires a doctor’s referral and proof of homebound status, meaning the patient must need significant effort or assistance to leave home. Chronic conditions such as COPD, heart disease, and diabetes often qualify for support, as symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath can severely limit mobility.
How do I get the equipment I need?
Simply speak with our home health care team about the items your doctor has prescribed or recommended. Our team can also suggest any additional equipment you may need. We take care of contacting your medical providers and equipment company to gather the required paperwork, and we coordinate the delivery and setup of the equipment in your home.
Is there maintenance required for the equipment?
Yes, regular upkeep is essential to ensure safe and proper functioning. For rented equipment such as hospital beds, oxygen systems, power chairs, and scooters, the medical equipment company is responsible for handling all maintenance, repairs, and replacements while the rental agreement is active.
How often will a home health aide visit?
The frequency of visits is determined by each patient’s personalized care plan. The home health agency arranges the schedule according to the patient’s specific needs.
What type of assistance can a home health care provide for diabetes management?
For diabetes management, a multi-disciplinary team works together to create a personalized care plan for the patient. This may include, but is not limited to, education on the disease process, symptom control strategies such as blood sugar monitoring, medication management, and support with adhering to prescribed diet and exercise plans.
What types of medical equipment do you help acquire?
We assist in obtaining a wide range of medical equipment for home use, including hospital beds, wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen systems, blood pressure monitors, patient lifts, CPAP machines, bathroom safety items like shower chairs and grab bars, and much more.
Does my insurance cover home medical equipment?
Most major medical insurance plans cover a portion of home medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, and oxygen, when deemed medically necessary and with a doctor’s prescription. Our team is knowledgeable in insurance requirements and will manage the entire process for you, from approval to claims filing.
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Caring for Neighborhoods Throughout Chicagoland
RealityCare Nursing and Therapy provides high-quality home health services throughout Chicago and the surrounding areas. Our compassionate team is dedicated to delivering expert care in the comfort of your home. Explore the areas we serve below:
- Chicago
- Orland Park
- Tinley Park
- Lemont
- New Lenox
- Oak Lawn
- Frankfort
- Mokena
- Chicago Ridge
- Homer Glen
- Calumet City
- Oak Park
- Burbank
- Chicago Heights
- Evergreen Park
- Homewood
- Alsip
- Palos Hills
- Palos Heights
- Lockport
- Downers Grove
- Elmhurst
- Lombard
- Villa Park