In this Edition:

• Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeinated drinks that are dehydrating;
• Don’t work or play outside in the middle of the day – try early mornings or dusk, if you must be outside;
• Speaking of dusk, use bug spray to avoid mosquito bites, especially at dusk;
• Wear a hat and sunglasses, along with sun screen to protect sensitive parts of the body;
• While we’re talking about clothing – remember to wear light colors and breathable materials that allow the air to circulate to your skin. They will help the body to stay cooler;
• Check with your doctor about the effects of heat on your medications. Some doses may have to be changed to help your body compensate for the heat;
• Remain in cooler environments with air conditioning if possible. Instead of walking outside, take a walk in the mall;
• Avoid alcohol which is also dehydrating;
• If you get overheated, try cool water on pulse points, such as wrists and the back of your neck;
• Seek medical help if you feel dizzy, pass out or start vomiting.

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Success Story: A Student’s Perspective
by Vianeschka Castro, MSW Student Intern

As a master’s student in social work, my experience in working with the elderly was limited before my internship at Rona Bartelstone Care Management and Home Healthcare Agency.

I had some preconceived notions about the elderly; nevertheless, those views have definitely changed since interning here. I never thought I would have learned anything from someone who is 101 years old, but I have learned meaningful life lessons. I’ve learned about the power of the human spirit, self-awareness, and tenacity from a remarkably incredible woman.

During my initial meeting with H.G., I was extremely nervous. She was stern and direct, but I could tell there was a gentle side to her. She wanted someone with whom she could have meaningful and intellectual conversations. I am hardly the intellectual; however, I was up for the challenge. I quickly learned I had to be on my toes when visiting with H.G. She is well read, worldly, artistic and (despite her age of 101) her memory is still keen. She stated during this initial visit that “she was depressed and wanted a social worker.” Initially, I thought to myself, “What do I have in common with someone who is 101 years old?” I later found that we did have many commonalities, including the love of travel, poems, brain teasers and New York City! On February 22, I received an E-mail from H.G.’s daughter-in-law in which she wrote:

“I think the second visit, when you brought valentine candy to the pool, was a turning point. She thinks you are a "treasure," which is quite a compliment to you because as you know she can be very critical and judgmental of others. She cannot sing your praises enough—but the important thing is what having this contact with you has meant to her. She is much calmer and more contained—she is able to use her headphones and watch TV or listen to books on tape. She is aware of the political scene and wants to talk about it. Her whole mood and demeanor is more relaxed and positive. But the most interesting thing is that she is more accepting and tolerant of her aide, Jean, and hasn't gone on about her usual complaints. Her contact with you lessens the intensity of that relationship which is what having other social contacts can accomplish. Now, this is also very interesting to me, and also a result of your entering her social system—a neighbor, who had been visiting her for a while had practically stopped visiting or it seemed to me that she might be avoiding her because H.G. was so negative and full of complaints. Now, things are back to the way they were in the beginning. She is visiting regularly, having discussions about all sorts of things and H.G. is not driving her away with her paranoia and complaints. So, just keep doing what you're doing.

“It is not only amazing the power of a good social interaction and having an ongoing relationship with an elderly woman can be, but in fact it is about the lack of stimulation and interaction with another, in a focused way, with someone whom she can admire and respect, that can bring her neurons back to life. The brain listens to the heart. Thanks again. Your sensitivity and awareness is impressive and producing results—lets keep in touch.”

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Rona Bartelstone On the Radio

Rona Bartelstone was interviewed on the "Retiring with Health and Wealth" program featuring the LTC Guys. The interview aired in the Fort Myers area on WINK 96.9 AM.

During this interview, Rona explains what Private Duty Custodial Care means for the individual that is being cared for. She also goes on to explain the difference between Home Healthcare and Care Management and all of the services that are provided by Rona Bartelstone Care Management & Home Healthcare Inc.

Rona also participated as a panelist on the The Shifter Sister's radio broadcast, "The Sandwich Generation" During this interview, Rona explains “The Sandwich Generation” and the role that we play in this care-giving situation. All of the panelists cover issues from the emotional stress of being a care giver (personal or professional) to parents not wanting to be a burden on their children during the most crucial years that require more care depending on their health.

Click here to listen to the interviews