Through the years, 165 to be exact, JFS has transformed the lives of individuals and families and strengthened the Richmond community by providing the best options in care, counseling and adoption. The Home Care program, encompassed under JFS Care Services, enables impoverished seniors to remain living safely, independently, and comfortably in their own homes, not in state-funded nursing homes, for as long as possible.
Last year, JFS served 137 clients in the Home Care program and 75% of Home Care clients are 65 years and older. JFS continues to increase the number of low-income clients served through the program. Of those reporting income, 62% live within Federal Poverty Indicators making less than $23,540 a year. Thanks to generous funding from the United Way of Greater Richmond and Petersburg, JFS is able to serve these impoverished clients in the greater Richmond region with skilled and professional staff.
The Home Care team is made up of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) and Professional Care Aides (PCA), all screened and trained to ensure top quality care. They work closely with the individuals they serve, building a relationship to understand the overarching health needs of the client. This enables the CNA or PCA to know better when there is a dramatic decline in health, a sudden occurring need, and the best long-term care plan for the client. JFS Home Care can offer as little assistance as needed or as much as 24/7 care. The day to day services can include: monitor diet and eating, bathing, dressing, aid with reading, medication reminders, meal preparation, arrange appointments, cooking, cleaning, walking and mobility, accompaniment to medical appointments and caregiver respite.
Focusing on the ever changing needs of the community, JFS recognizes the importance of hiring and retaining qualified PCAs and CNAs to meet the care requirements of our clients. To continue to meet this need, the organization has expanded training and education opportunities for current employees. JFS now offers a monthly Tea & Talk for JFS Care Services staff which enables aides and other caregivers the chance to gain additional knowledge and skill-sets to help better serve their clients. The Tea & Talk topics are centered on the needs of the clients and are focused on themes such as health and safety, social isolation and meal preparation.
Over the last year, JFS has placed a greater emphasis on reducing social isolation in older adults served by the program, in addition to the community at large. CNAs and PCAs are trained to engage with clients, making meaningful and lasting relationships by building rapport and ensuring that all clients feel comfortable under JFS care. Meals also become opportunities for social engagement, not a transactional task.
JFS Home Care PCAs and CNAs become a trusted companion and friend, easing the isolation many homebound seniors feel. With support and resources from JFS Home Care it is possible to provide quality care for a loved one. To learn more about how JFS Care Services can help you or a loved one, or to find out about an upcoming Tea & Talk contact Lisa Colegrove at lcolegrove@jfsrichmond.org or 804-282-5644 ext. 254. Also you can visit JFS on the web at www.jfsrichmond.org.
Leave a Reply