Debunk common flu vaccine myths and understand the importance of annual flu shots for everyone in your community.

The temperature has started falling and distant relatives have started calling—the holiday season is in full swing, which means flu and vaccine season is well underway! Worryingly, however, a summer survey¹ from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) found that "nearly half [of US adults] have said they do not plan to or are unsure they will get vaccinated against flu this season." Persistent misinformation or conflicting data surrounding vaccinations can discourage some people from taking that step.

Let’s dispel some common myths about flu season! Here are a few easy-to-remember facts that we can use to encourage others in our community to stay healthy even during this vulnerable time.

MYTH: Only the very young, very old, or chronically sick should get vaccinated.

FACT: Generally speaking, the more members of a community are vaccinated against an illness, the better for everyone. The practice of “herd immunity,” which most adults became familiar with in 2020, is a historically effective means of stamping out many persistent diseases.

Plus, someone with a perfectly healthy immune system can still become a viral carrier and infect those who are less protected. None of us lives in a vacuum; we each have friends and loved ones we want to protect from the dangers of the world. We can protect them from the flu by vaccinating ourselves.

MYTH: Getting the flu vaccine gives you the flu anyway.

FACT: This fear comes from an imperfect understanding of how vaccines work. The flu vaccine injects an inactive (i.e. dead) fragment of the virus strain into the bloodstream. Doing this provides the immune system with a “blueprint” of the virus, helping it recognize that same strain if it appears again, which means the body’s defenses will be able to react against it more quickly. However, this injected viral remnant cannot suddenly reanimate and begin infecting the body.

CDC data consistently shows the flu vaccine has one of the highest safety records of all commercial vaccines². Side effects are varied but almost always mild, with the most common detriment being a few hours of dull soreness or stiffness around the injection site.

MYTH: I only have time for a COVID (or other) vaccine. I can’t schedule a second one.

FACT: It’s important to prioritize the preventative health efforts that are more likely to affect you. But it’s worth noting that many places that offer multiple vaccinations will often also be willing to administer them consecutively, within the same visit. If you’ve scheduled a COVID vaccine, ask the provider if they would be willing to include a flu vaccine as well. Although you would need separate vaccines for each virus, they can be administered together in most cases with no significant risk of compounding side effects.

MYTH: It’s okay to wait several years or longer between flu vaccines.

FACT: This can be true for some vaccines, but influenza is a special case. The flu virus is especially resilient due to its high rate of mutation. Like cars or smartphones, there’s a new model every year. The viral “blueprint” supplied by last year’s vaccine formula is likely to be outdated and unhelpful against this year’s strain.

Additionally, the vaccines themselves do become less effective over time. Much like a single allergy pill won’t relieve the associated symptoms forever, a single vaccine will only protect you for a limited time, even against even the specific strain it’s designed for. Renew those immune defenses annually.

MYTH: I need to schedule an appointment with my primary care physician to be eligible for a flu vaccine.

FACT: Your primary doctor is certainly a great resource for vaccines and any questions relating to them. However, in recent years several other sources have emerged as viable alternatives, some of which may actually be more convenient.

If you want another option, consider checking an urgent care facility, college or public-school health center, pharmacy, or your local health department. Many of these offer low- or no-cost vaccines to children and adults. Appointments are common, but not always required; some walk-ins may be allowed. Regardless, plan ahead if you can and contact one of these places in advance to confirm their vaccine policies and procedures.

¹ https://www.nfid.org/resource/2024-national-survey-attitudes-and-behaviors-about-influenza-covid-19-respiratory-syncytial-virus-and-pneumococcal-disease/

² https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/acip/app/safety.htm 

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What am I doing, and why am I doing it?  

This isn’t an uncommon question for any 22-year-old. When I first joined the post-acute sector as a young professional and a recent college graduate, I found myself asking this question a lot. Why join this industry, when most of my firsthand life experience until now has been so far removed from it?

I found my answer during an overnight stay at Christian Living Communities’ Holly Creek Continued Care Retirement Community (CCRC). Recently, with little more than a vague goal of getting some ground-floor perspective on what such a community might offer its residents, I spent 24 hours as a resident with Christian Living. To call the experience ‘eye-opening’ would be an understatement.

My arrival at Holly Creek resembled my first steps onto a college campus excited to see what would be in store for me and again wondering “what am I doing”? When I stepped into the reception area, my nervous energy quickly dissipated thanks to the immediate aura of warmth and compassion coming from the Holly Creek admissions staff who greeted me. I’ve stayed at a fair number of hotels in my short career, and most of them can’t hold a candle to Christian Living when it comes to quick and stress-free check-ins. The admissions team floored me with their uncanny ability to ease the nerves of new arrivals.

To more closely mirror the experiences of long-term care residents, I was assigned a wheelchair, with a primary diagnosis of a non-weight bearing hip fracture that required me to stay off my feet for my length of stay. With my new wheels, I reluctantly let myself be escorted to my suite – which was quite a step up from my first college dorm, by the way. The temperature was mild, the amenities were numerous, and the La-Z-Boy recliner was a revelation to a newly chair-bound twentysomething.

The staff at Christian Living was second to none. During my brief residency, I was looked after by nurses Desta and “T”. They went above and beyond in making sure new arrivals like me got acclimated to their new environment. Evals and check-ins were common without being intrusive, and their cheerful banter kept a light atmosphere throughout the night.

Desta and “T” weren’t the only Christian Living staff who impressed me. As the day continued, I seized the opportunity to have one-on-one chats with CNAs, social workers, administrators, the Director of Nursing, and even the on-site chaplain. All of whom exhibited a joyous passion and dedication to their roles, which require a great deal of flexibility when attending to a broad spectrum of resident needs. I saw many residents whose level of assistance varied, and I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the staff’s relentless patience and attentiveness at each of those moments.

As I felt my 24-hour tenure at Christian Living winding down, I reflected on those moments more and more. This, I thought, is what working in the senior care industry requires—a deep and abiding understanding of the day-to-day life of these residents, with all the little frustrations, struggles, and triumphs that accompany it. It requires inherent selflessness of character. It requires discipline and empathy in equal measure. Seeing those qualities in the Christian Living team—and seeing that devotion and delight reflected right back at them from their residents—sealed the deal for me: this work is worth it. If you do it well, it will always be worth it.

So, with my stay concluded, my wheelchair and I soon parted ways. That self-imposed confinement was the only thing about my visit that I wouldn’t miss. Standing up from it, I was struck by the privileges of my youth in a way that had never really hit me before. I suddenly imagined an older version of myself, similarly confined but unable to spring out of his chair after an arbitrary time limit. I want to do my part in making senior living communities like Holly Creek a haven for the hurting and a sanctuary that any elder will be thrilled to call home. 

Thanks to Christian Living Communities for allowing me to visit and pick their brains for a night. I’m grateful to them because they helped me to answer those two questions that had been needling me since I joined the senior living field. What am I doing? I’m making a difference for people who never stopped mattering. Why am I doing it? Because it’s worth it, and it always will be.

We have more coming next week; email us; we want to hear from you!

Thank you, Christian Living Communities’ Holly Creek Continued Care Retirement Community (CCRC), for inviting and welcoming Evan Clark to stay at your facility! 

Technology has certainly advanced in recent years, but it’s still an imperfect system. So what happens when technology fails? Who are the real masked heroes? 

This week, it's all about giving technicians in tier 1 and 2 support their flowers!

In times of IT failure, technicians are the first line of defense. They are trained to quickly identify the root cause of the problem and take appropriate action to restore functionality. They possess a deep understanding of the systems they maintain and can navigate through complex technical issues with ease.

Technicians are an essential part of any organization, responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of various systems and equipment. They play a crucial role in maintaining and repairing IT infrastructure, including hardware, software, and network components. Their expertise and knowledge are vital in troubleshooting issues and resolving them efficiently.

Technicians play a proactive role in preventing IT failures due to their approach to risk management. By conducting regular inspections, performing routine maintenance tasks, and implementing preventive measures to minimize the risk of system failures, technicians are able to identify potential risks and issues that may arise during the course of a project and develop strategies to mitigate them. By identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate, they help ensure the continuous operation of critical IT infrastructure and help prevent problems from escalating into larger ones that could lead to project failure.

Moreover, technicians are excellent problem solvers. They possess strong analytical skills and the ability to think on their feet. When faced with an IT failure, they can quickly assess the situation, devise a plan of action, and execute it effectively. Their resourcefulness and adaptability are crucial in maintaining business continuity.

In summary, technicians are the unsung heroes of an organization's IT department. Their role in ensuring smooth operations, minimizing downtime, and preventing IT failures cannot be overstated. Recognizing their value is essential for businesses to appreciate the crucial role they play in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of IT systems.

We have more coming next week, but we'd love to know who else YOU think deserves the spotlight!  Email us, we want to hear from you!

The New Year is all about starting fresh! Many people choose to commit themselves to a New Year's resolution, do you?

It's not always easy to choose where to begin, but we hope that the following suggestions will help you discover the best New Year's resolutions for your own personal growth and self-improvement, and set yourself up for success in the coming year!

Reflecting on the past year

Reflecting on the past year is an important step in selecting New Year's resolutions for personal growth. Take some time to think about what went well and what you could improve upon. Celebrate your accomplishments and learn from your mistakes. This self-reflection will provide valuable insights that can guide your goals for the coming year.

Setting realistic and achievable goals

When setting New Year's resolutions, it's crucial to set realistic and achievable goals. Avoid setting yourself up for disappointment by setting unrealistic expectations. Break your goals down into smaller, actionable steps that you can work on throughout the year. This will help you stay motivated and make steady progress towards your personal growth.

Prioritizing self-care and mental well-being

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to neglect self-care and mental well-being. However, taking care of yourself is essential for personal growth. Make it a priority to engage in activities that promote your physical and mental health. This could include regular exercise, practicing mindfulness or meditation, getting enough sleep, and nurturing your relationships. By prioritizing self-care, you'll be better equipped to tackle your other resolutions.

Embracing new experiences and stepping out of your comfort zone

Personal growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences. Make a commitment to try new things and expand your horizons in the coming year. This could involve taking up a new hobby, traveling to new places, or challenging yourself professionally or academically. By pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, you'll discover new strengths and capabilities that will contribute to your personal growth. For example, members of our sales and marketing team have vowed to read more books, walk three miles a day, become more involved in the community, volunteer within their local senior care facilities, get outside more, and spend more time in nature! At the end of the day, your resolution doesn't have to be complicated, it just needs to challenge you to step outside your comfort zone.

Tracking progress and staying accountable

To ensure that you're making progress towards your personal growth goals, it's important to track your progress and stay accountable. Set up a system that allows you to monitor your achievements and setbacks. This could be a journal, a habit tracker, or a progress chart. Additionally, find someone who can hold you accountable and provide support along the way. Regularly reviewing your progress and staying accountable will help you stay motivated and committed to your resolutions.

Were we able to get the ball rolling? What are your New Year's resolutions?  Email us and let us know, we want to hear from you!

What does the future of post-acute care look like in 15 years and what does it mean for the future of healthcare? 

We may not be able to predict the future, but we can take note of the current trends and perform pattern analysis. Here are our predictions:

The Expansion of Home-Based Care Services

In the next 15 years, we can expect to see a significant expansion of home-based care services in the post-acute care landscape. With advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on personalized care, more and more individuals will have the option to receive care in the comfort of their own homes. Home-based care services could include a wide range of medical and non-medical services, such as nursing care, physical therapy, medication management, and assistance with daily activities. These services will be delivered by a team of trained professionals who will visit patients' homes on a regular basis to provide the necessary care and support. Additionally, advancements in remote monitoring technologies will enable healthcare providers to closely monitor patients' health conditions and intervene in a timely manner if any issues arise. This shift towards home-based care will revolutionize the way post-acute care is delivered, allowing individuals to age in place and receive the care they need in a familiar and comfortable environment, providing patients with a greater sense of independence and dignity and alleviating the strain on healthcare facilities and reduce healthcare costs.

Future Innovations in Technological Solutions

The future of post-acute care will be shaped by innovative technological solutions that aim to improve patient outcomes and enhance the efficiency of care delivery. While the development of wearable devices and sensors that can continuously monitor patients' vital signs and health conditions are already underway, the efficiency and widespread use of these devices will expand, enabling healthcare providers to track patients' progress in real-time, identify potential issues early on, and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Another area of innovation will be in the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to analyze large volumes of patient data and identify patterns and trends. By leveraging these technologies, healthcare providers will be able to make more accurate diagnoses, customize treatment plans based on individual patient needs, and predict potential complications before they occur.

Furthermore, the future will see the integration of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies into post-acute care. These technologies will enable healthcare providers to create immersive and interactive experiences for patients, helping them to manage pain, improve mobility, and engage in therapeutic activities.

Overall, future innovations in technological solutions hold great promise for improving the quality and efficiency of post-acute care.

The Value of Telehealth in 15 years' time

The use of telecommunications technology to deliver healthcare services remotely will play a crucial role in the future of post-acute care. In 15 years' time, telehealth will become even more integrated into the healthcare system, providing patients with convenient access to healthcare services and reducing the need for unnecessary hospital visits. Patients will be able to consult with healthcare providers via video calls, receive remote monitoring and follow-up care, and access educational resources to better manage their health conditions. This will be particularly beneficial for individuals in rural or underserved areas who may have limited access to healthcare facilities. Telehealth will also enable healthcare providers to collaborate and consult with experts from around the world, improving the quality of care and expanding treatment options for patients. Additionally, telehealth will help to streamline healthcare operations, reduce costs, and improve overall patient satisfaction.

In summary, the value of telehealth in 15 years' time will be immense, revolutionizing the way post-acute care is delivered and enhancing healthcare accessibility for all.

Data Analytics

Data analytics will play a crucial role in the future of post-acute care, enabling healthcare providers to make more informed decisions and improve patient outcomes. In 15 years' time, the integration of data analytics into post-acute care will be widespread, allowing healthcare providers to leverage the power of data to identify trends, predict patient outcomes, and optimize treatment plans.

By analyzing large volumes of patient data, healthcare providers will be able to identify patterns and correlations that may not be apparent through traditional means. This will enable them to develop personalized treatment plans that take into account individual patient characteristics, preferences, and risk factors. Additionally, data analytics can help healthcare providers identify areas for improvement in care delivery and implement targeted interventions to enhance patient safety and outcomes.

Moreover, the integration of data analytics will facilitate better coordination and communication among healthcare providers, ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care across different care settings. It will also enable healthcare organizations to track and monitor the performance of their post-acute care programs, identify areas of inefficiency, and implement strategies for improvement.

Staff Education and Training

As the landscape of post-acute care evolves, it will be crucial for healthcare organizations to invest in staff education and training to ensure that healthcare professionals are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality care. In the next 15 years, there will be a greater emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork, as healthcare professionals from different backgrounds work together to deliver comprehensive and coordinated care.

Healthcare organizations will invest in ongoing education and training programs to keep healthcare professionals up to date with the latest advancements in post-acute care. This will include training on new technologies, evidence-based practices, and communication and leadership skills. Additionally, healthcare professionals will be encouraged to pursue advanced certifications and specializations to further enhance their expertise.

Furthermore, there will be a focus on fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within healthcare organizations. This will involve creating opportunities for healthcare professionals to engage in research, quality improvement projects, and interdisciplinary learning forums. By investing in staff education and training, healthcare organizations will ensure that their workforce is well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of post-acute care.

In summary, investments in staff education and training will be essential for driving positive change and ensuring the delivery of high-quality post-acute care in the future.

What do you think assisted living/post-acute care will look like 15 years from now? Give us your thoughts! Are there any trends that you've been noticing? What's happening in your communities? Comment below or email us, we want to hear from you!