Get to Know the Healthcare Team Guiding Life’s Last Chapters

When you are young and healthy, your interactions with the healthcare system are often brief and infrequent. However, as you age, these interactions become more frequent and prolonged. You will spend more time with medical professionals, seeking their support for various health challenges. Whether these increased encounters are due to your own health needs or those of your loved ones, it’s essential to understand the roles and responsibilities of each professional and how they work together to help you maintain your independence and quality of life.

It may be helpful to think of your aging journey like a voyage on a ship, where different members of your healthcare team work together as a well-coordinated crew. Your primary care doctor acts as the "Captain of the Ship," steering you through complex physical and cognitive challenges. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs) serve as co-captains, helping to set the course.

Nurses take on the role of officers, directing day-to-day activities and ensuring the ship's operations run smoothly. Healthcare Social Workers and Case Managers act as the Directors of Programming, suggesting support and resources to help you and your family navigate the emotional and practical challenges of aging and illness. Therapists, including Physical, Occupational, and Speech, are like engineers, maintaining and enhancing your functionality and independence. Finally, Home and Personal Care Aides, Nursing Assistants, and Orderlies form the crew, providing essential hands-on assistance and keeping supplies in order.

Medical Practitioners – The Captains & Co-Captains

When you seek healthcare, you might interact with a variety of Medical Practitioners, including Physicians, Nurse Practitioners (NPs), and Physician Assistants (PAs). These professionals work together to make sure you receive the best possible care, each playing a vital role in helping you set the best possible direction for your aging journey.

PCPs, NPs, and PAs work closely with Specialists and Surgeons to coordinate all aspects of your voyage. Typically, all these Medical Practitioners do one or more of the following during your visit:

• Obtain and review your medical history by asking about your past and current health issues, surgeries, and other conditions to understand your overall health, ensuring they consider your medical background when developing a strategy to address your issues.

• Conduct physical exams to check your health and identify any potential issues, such as monitoring your heart and lungs or checking for signs of chronic conditions.

• Order and interpret diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and blood tests, to determine your condition, helping to uncover challenges like arthritis, osteoporosis, or heart disease.

• Evaluate injuries and illnesses based on the results of your exams and tests, addressing problems from minor injuries to serious illnesses like diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

• Deliver treatment, including setting broken bones, stitching wounds, immunizing against diseases, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure or prescribing physical therapy.

• Educate and counsel you on medical alternatives, managing chronic conditions like diabetes or COPD, and preventive measures such as diet, exercise, and vaccinations.

• Prescribe medications to manage various issues, such as pain relievers, antibiotics, or medications for chronic conditions like hypertension.

• Assess and record your progress by continuously monitoring your performance and adjusting your program as needed to support the best outcomes, such as modifying medication dosages or recommending lifestyle changes.

• Research the latest discoveries to stay updated on medical advancements, ensuring you receive the most effective services available, whether it’s new medications or innovative therapies.

Despite these similarities, there are important differences. Physicians undergo extensive training that includes medical school and several years of residency and internship. Nurse practitioners are Registered Nurses with advanced degrees and training in specific fields. Physician Assistants complete a master’s degree program and practice under the supervision of a physician. State-specific regulations also dictate the extent of NP and PA activities and autonomy.

Understanding these distinctions can help you better understand the roles of the health professionals directing your care. Let's delve deeper into the specifics of each type of Medical Practitioner, starting with Physicians and Surgeons.

Physicians

Physicians are specialized medical professionals who diagnose and treat various health conditions, perform surgeries, and recommend preventive solutions. They focus on specific areas of medicine and further specialize within those areas to cater to the specific needs of elderly patients.  

In the context of our ship analogy, your primary care physician performs the duties of a captain. They oversee your overall healthcare journey, making crucial decisions, and coordinating with other members of your medical care team. You choose your PCP from available Family Medicine Physicians, General Internal Medicine Physicians, or Geriatricians to serve as your central point of care.

Like maritime pilots with specific knowledge of often dangerous or congested waterways, Specialists and Surgeons bring their in-depth knowledge and expertise to pilot your path through difficult health challenges in their area of expertise. For example, if you have a heart condition, your PCP (the captain) might refer you to a cardiologist (a maritime pilot) to ensure you receive dedicated expertise.  Depending on your chronic conditions and illnesses, you may be referred to one or more Specialists and Surgeons to address issues in their area of expertise.

Here is a summary of the different types of Physicians that may be members of your medical team to help you better understand their area of expertise and how they can help you and your loved one.

Medical Specialities by Area of Focus

• Anesthesiologists administer anesthetics to manage pain during surgeries and other medical procedures. They monitor your vital signs throughout surgery and help manage chronic pain conditions, offering relief and improved quality of life.

• Cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the heart and blood vessels. They manage conditions like heart attacks, high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and heart failure, using diagnostic tests like ECGs and echocardiograms to assess heart health.

• Dermatologists focus on treating skin, hair, and nail conditions. They manage issues like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer, providing both medical and surgical procedures to improve and maintain skin health.

• Emergency Medicine Physicians treat patients with acute illnesses or injuries requiring immediate medical attention. They stabilize patients, perform emergency procedures, and make critical decisions in fast-paced environments like emergency rooms.

• Endocrinologists deal with hormone-related disorders and often treats older adults for conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and osteoporosis, focusing on hormonal balance and metabolic health.

• Family Medicine Physicians supply comprehensive support for both children and adults across all ages, genders, and diseases. They manage a wide range of health issues, emphasizing preventive and long-term health management.

• Gastroenterologists or “GI Doctor” specialize in the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. They manage issues such as acid reflux, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and colorectal cancer.

• General Internal Medicine Physicians, or Internist, identify conditions affecting internal organs such as the stomach, kidneys, and liver. They manage chronic diseases, coordinate activities, and recommend preventive health services primarily for adults more than 18 years of age.

• Geriatricians concentrate on seniors 60 years and older, applying their expertise on how aging impacts your physical and cognitive capabilities. Like children metabolize medications differently, so too do elderly bodies. They address medical issues, medication management, and overall health maintenance in the context or your current age, ability, and quality of life preferences.

• Gynecologists offer both preventive and specialized treatments to support women's health through all stages of life, including menopause and hormone replacement therapy. They also screen for and treat conditions such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and gynecologic cancers.

• Hepatologists specialize in the health of the liver and treats conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, and liver cancer in older adults, managing their care through medication, lifestyle adjustments, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions.

• Hospitalists manage and coordinate all aspects of your care during a hospital stay. They work closely with your PCP and other Specialists for continuity from when you are admitted until you are discharged to skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or home health.

• Nephrologists specialize in the health of the kidneys and treats conditions such as chronic kidney disease, kidney infections, and hypertension in older adults, managing their care through medication and lifestyle adjustments.

• Neurologists concentrate on disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. They manage conditions like epilepsy, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and migraines.

• Oncologists are called in to develop and manage personalized cancer care plans, including chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, working closely with other Specialists to support you through all stages of your cancer journey.

• Ophthalmologists focus on eye conditions and diseases. They perform eye exams, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and conduct surgeries for issues like cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal disorders.

• Orthopedists deal with conditions and injuries related to the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. They perform surgeries to repair fractures, replace joints, and correct deformities.

• Otolaryngologists, commonly referred to as an ENT, specializes in the medical and surgical care of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. If you're experiencing hearing issues, an ENT will diagnose the cause and discuss treatment options, possibly coordinating with an audiologist for further hearing tests and aid fittings.

• Pathologists study body tissues, fluids, and organs to identify diseases. They analyze samples obtained through biopsies, surgeries, and autopsies to share critical information for diagnosing and treating illnesses.

• Psychiatrists concentrate on mental health disorders through a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, and counseling. They help you manage conditions like depression, anxiety, and dementia-related behaviors.

• Pulmonologists focus on the respiratory system and are adept at managing diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and pneumonia, which commonly affect the elderly, enhancing their breathing and overall lung function.

• Radiologists interpret medical images such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to spot and monitor diseases. They impart critical information for diagnosing conditions like fractures, tumors, and internal injuries.

• Rheumatologists specialize in rheumatic diseases and conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones. They manage conditions like arthritis, lupus, and gout, providing options to reduce inflammation and improve functioning.

• Surgeons perform operations to treat injuries, diseases, and deformities. They use surgical techniques to repair damage, remove tumors, and correct physical abnormalities and may focus principally in one specialty.

• Urologists detect and treat disorders of the urinary tract and male reproductive system, including urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections, and prostate issues, helping manage symptoms and improve urinary health.

Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants

Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants serve as co-captains, providing leadership alongside your primary care physician by getting to know your personally and conferring with your PCP on when to bring in Specialists to take the lead in certain aspects of your care. They support the PCP by sharing the responsibilities of diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing chronic conditions, and providing preventive recommendations. This teamwork guarantees your needs are addressed in a timely manner when your PCP may not be available. Let’s review the differences between a NP and PA.

Nurse Practitioners

Nurse practitioners are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who often specialize in areas such as adult and geriatric health, making them key providers in managing your ongoing health needs. Unlike Registered Nurses (RNs), NPs have advanced training that allows them to perform additional tasks such as diagnosing health problems, ordering and evaluating test results, and prescribing medications. NPs may also gather information about your condition and take action to treat or manage your health, including referring you to Specialists when necessary. You may encounter one or more of these types of Nurse Practitioners:

• Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) furnishing comprehensive services for individuals and families across all ages, focusing on preventive actions, chronic disease management, and health education.

• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs) concentrate on older adults, promoting healthy aging and managing acute and chronic conditions.

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) offering mental health care, including psychiatric disorder diagnosis, psychotherapy, and prescribing medications.

• Women's Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNPs) focus on gynecological health, including prevention and menopause symptoms.

Physician Assistants

Physician Assistants (PAs) professionals furnish services typically performed by a physician, under the supervision of a physician as determined by state-specific regulations. Their role is especially vital in rural and underserved communities, where they may serve as the PCP in clinics, with a supervising physician present only one to two days per week. PAs also work in various specialties, including primary care, emergency medicine, and psychiatry. For instance, a PA in surgery may assist during operations, while a PA in a family medicine clinic might handle routine check-ups and vaccinations.

Nursing Professionals – Healthcare Ship Officers

While both Medical Practitioners and Nursing Professionals deliver essential services, they approach patient interactions differently. Medical Practitioners focus on diagnosing and treating medical conditions, often taking a more clinical and diagnostic approach in the limited time available to interact with you and your loved ones.

In contrast, Nursing Professionals, akin to the ship's officers, take a more holistic approach to patient management. They not only administer treatments and medications but also give emotional support and education to you and your family. Nursing Professionals are the frontline for patient-centered care, helping you understand your conditions and medical recommendations. They often spend more time with you, monitoring your progress and addressing your concerns.

Nursing Professionals play a critical role in coordinating providers and activities, collaborating with various professionals based on their firsthand observations and passing on your questions for a comprehensive and continuous approach. Let's explore the specifics of the two largest Nursing Professional designations, starting with Registered Nurses.

Registered Nurses

Registered Nurses (RNs) are highly trained and educated partners on your medical team. They serve as Medical Practitioners eyes and ears, closely monitoring how well you are progressing. RNs take the lead in administering procedures and are a valuable resource, educating you and the public about various health conditions, and giving advice and emotional support to you and your family.

You will find Registered Nurses in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home health agencies. In hospitals, RNs work in different departments such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, and surgical wards. In clinics and private practices, they assist with routine check-ups and chronic disease management. You may also encounter RNs aiding in community health centers and rehabilitation facilities. Some RNs also work as nurse educators, consultants, or hospital administrators.  Registered Nurses typically do one or more of the following:

• Assess your condition to identify any issues that require attention and help create an effective plan tailored to your specific needs.

• Record your medical history and symptoms to make sure there is continuity and informed decisions are made.

• Observe and document how you respond to medications and procedures, to track your progress and any potential issues that may arise.

• Administer prescriptions so you receive the correct dosage at the right interval for effective results.

• Develop and implement plans to address your specific health needs and quality of life preferences.

• Consult and collaborate with multidisciplinary team to guarantee the best possible outcome.

• Operate and monitor medical equipment and devices to verify proper function and your safety.

• Help perform diagnostic tests and analyze the results to identify the right approach and monitor its effectiveness.

• Educate you and your family on how to manage illnesses or injuries to prevent problems and support an active role in your health and independence.

• Explain transition recommendations by providing clear instructions on what to do at home after being released from an institutional setting for a smooth recovery and to prevent complications.

RNs are invaluable resources to you and your family. Their unique perspective at the bedside, in the clinic, and during home visits allows them to communicate a holistic view that informs your entire team. They may specialize in working with specific patient groups, including:

• Addiction nurses caring for patients overcoming addictions, providing support to help them recover and maintain sobriety.

• Cardiovascular nurses helping patients with heart disease or conditions manage medical and lifestyle changes to improve heart health.

• Critical care nurses delivering support in intensive care units for patients with serious, complex, and acute illnesses and injuries that need close monitoring and assistance.

• Genetics nurses performing screenings, counseling, and procedures for genetic disorders, as well as educating families on how to manage these conditions.

• Nephrology nurses administering kidney-related services such as dialysis and educating patients on lifestyle adjustments.

• Public health nurses promoting public health through education and community programs including health screenings, immunization clinics, and other outreach efforts.

• Rehabilitation nurses supporting patients with disabilities or chronic illnesses by helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life.

Licensed Practical Nurse & Licensed Vocational Nurse

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) supply basic medical attention when you are ill, injured, or convalescing. These nurses work in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, group homes, and similar institutions, often under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN).

Their responsibilities are nearly identical, with their title (“Practical” or “Vocational”) depending on the state in which they work. For example, some states allow LPNs with proper training to give medication or start intravenous (IV) drips. States determine how much supervision is required, and some states allow experienced LPNs and LVNs to oversee other LPNs, LVNs, or unlicensed medical staff. Typically, LPNs and LVNs do one or more of the following to help you and your family:

• Monitor your health by checking your blood pressure, body temperature, and other vital signs to track your condition and determine whether you are stable.

• Deliver basic support and comfort through assistance with bathing, dressing, changing bandages, and other personal medical tasks to keep you comfortable and clean.

• Discuss your medical plan, listen to concerns, and answer questions to build your knowledge, understanding, and comfort.

• Report your status and issues to RNs and Medical Practitioners to help guarantee you receive appropriate attention.

• Document your performance for accurate health records on your procedures, progress, and any changes in your condition.

Responsibilities of LPNs and LVNs can also vary by work setting. For example, in private homes they reinforce instructions from RNs on how your family members should tend to you by giving personalized instruction and helping family members with caregiving duties. When working in hospitals they collect samples for testing and perform routine laboratory tests and assisting with basic patient services, monitoring vital signs, and supporting the medical team. LPNs and LVNs employed by assisted living and nursing homes assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Institutional Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). In clinics they support Medical Practitioners by preparing patients for examinations and performing routine tasks. LPNs and LVNs are often your first point of contact in these settings.

Case Managers & Social Workers – Directors of Programming

Just as the Director of Programming on a ship ensures that passengers have the resources and support they need to enjoy their journey, Case Managers and Healthcare Social Workers arrange for essential psychosocial support to help you and your family navigate the emotional and practical challenges of illness. Healthcare Social Workers are there to offer guidance and connect you with community resources. They help you cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses by providing information, counseling, and referrals to other providers. Case Managers also play a crucial role in advocating for your needs within the system, ensuring that your voice is heard and your needs are met. You will find them in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and private practices, supporting a wide range of situations, including:

• Transition from hospital to home by arranging for home health aides, medical equipment, and follow-up appointments to confirm you have the resources and support needed for a smooth transition.

• Chronic condition management of long-term illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease, by providing information on medical options, connecting you with support groups, and helping you access community resources to improve your quality of life.

• End-of-life support and counseling for patients and families dealing with terminal illnesses, helping you navigate hospice and palliative service options, and providing emotional support and practical assistance with advance care planning.

• Mental health support including therapy and counseling to help you cope with the emotional impact of illness and injury, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress, and connecting you with mental health services as needed.

Healthcare Social Workers and Case Managers typically do one or more of the following to assist you and your family:

• Identify needs and resources so you connect to community resources, such as home health, support groups, or food assistance, to improve your well-being.

• Assess your current situation by evaluating your needs, strengths, and support networks to help set and achieve realistic goals given your circumstances.

• Help you cope with life changes and challenges, such as illness or hospitalization, ensuring you have the support needed to manage short-term and permanent transitions.

• Respond to crises in emergency situations, such as mental health crises, making sure you receive immediate support.

• Monitor and follow up on your situation to verify your needs are being met and adjust support as necessary.

• Maintain records and detailed case files to track your progress and maintain continuity.

• Recommend counseling such as psychotherapy services to help you and your family cope with emotional and mental health issues related to illness and recovery.

Therapists – The Engineers

Just as engineers ensure that the ship's machinery runs smoothly and efficiently, Therapists work directly with you to maintain and enhance your physical, occupational, and communicative functions. Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech-Language Pathologists use their specialized knowledge to address specific challenges you may face due to illness, injury, or surgery. They develop and implement rehabilitative programs designed to improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength, and enhance your ability to perform daily activities.

These professionals work diligently to help you regain and maintain your independence, much like engineers certify that all systems on the ship operate optimally. Their goal is to keep you functioning at your best, allowing you to achieve the best possible quality of life given your current condition.

Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapists (OTs) help you build or restore practical skills necessary for daily living and working. They use therapeutic techniques, adapt your environment, and teach you skills to overcome barriers, helping you lead a more independent and fulfilling life. Occupational Therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, schools, and private homes. They help people of all ages who face functional challenges due to injuries, illnesses, or disabilities.  You might work with an occupational therapist if you are:

• Recovering from a stroke to help you relearn how to perform daily tasks such as dressing and bathing independently. They might use adaptive equipment like dressing sticks or bath benches and teach you techniques to improve your motor skills and coordination.

• Living with arthritis by providing exercises to maintain joint flexibility and strength, teaching joint protection techniques, and suggesting adaptive tools like jar openers or reachers to help you perform daily activities with less pain.

• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or COPD by adapting your home environment to make daily tasks easier. This might include organizing your kitchen for easier meal prep, teaching energy conservation techniques, or setting up a medication management system.

• Improving mental health if you are dealing with conditions like depression or anxiety by helping you develop coping strategies and daily routines that promote mental wellness. This might include planning and engaging in meaningful activities, improving time management skills, and creating a supportive home environment.

Occupational Therapists typically do one or more the following to assist you and your family:

• Evaluate your condition through a review your medical history, personal interview, and observation of you performing tasks to understand your needs and abilities.

• Develop and implement plans including specific goals and activities to help you achieve greater independence in daily living tasks.

• Relearn and perform daily tasks by teaching you how to dress, bathe, and manage other personal hygiene activities, especially after an injury or illness like a stroke.

• Demonstrate pain relief exercises such as joint stretches, to help alleviate pain from conditions like arthritis.

• Evaluate and adapt your environment via assessment of your home and suggest modifications to improve accessibility, like installing grab bars or labeling kitchen cabinets.

• Educate your family on how to support and tend for you, ensuring they understand your needs and how to assist you effectively.

• Recommend and train on special equipment including mobility aids, eating aids, and other devices.

• Monitor and document your progress completing daily activities and recommending improvements to adjust medical plans, as necessary.

Physical Therapists

Physical Therapists (PTs) focus on helping you recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve your overall mobility and strength. They use a variety of techniques to help you improve movement, manage pain, and prevent further injury. PTs assess, plan, and implement rehabilitative programs that relieve pain and correct disabling conditions resulting from disease or injury.

Physical Therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and even your own home. They help people of all ages who have functional problems due to injuries, chronic conditions, or illnesses. PTs often specialize in areas like geriatrics, orthopedics, or neurology, tailoring their techniques to meet the specific needs of their patients. You might work with a PT if you are recovering from:

• Back and neck injuries to help alleviate pain and restore function through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and ergonomic advice to improve posture and reduce strain.

• Sprains, strains, and fractures requiring strengthening of injured muscles and bones with customized exercise programs, balance training, and mobility aids to prevent re-injury.

• Arthritis with exercises and procedures to improve joint function, reduce pain, and increase flexibility, often incorporating aquatic therapy for gentle resistance.

• Neurological disorders for management of conditions like stroke or cerebral palsy with exercises to improve coordination, strength, and balance, and assistive devices to enhance mobility.

• Post-surgical recovery to assist in regaining mobility and strength after surgeries like joint replacements by developing rehabilitation plans that include strength training, range-of-motion exercises, and scar tissue management.

Physical Therapists typically do the following to assist you and your family:

• Review your medical history and any referrals from doctors to understand your condition and needs.

• Identify movement issues by observing you stand, walk, and perform other movements, PTs diagnose functional problems and listen to your concerns.

• Develop individualized plans that outline your goals and the expected outcomes, focusing on improving mobility, strength, and overall function.

• Use therapeutic techniques including exercises, stretching maneuvers, hands-on therapy, and equipment like canes or walkers to help ease pain, increase mobility, and prevent further injury.

• Evaluate progress and adjust your medical plan as needed to make certain you are advancing towards your goals.

• Educate you and your family on what to expect from the recovery process, offering strategies to cope with challenges and promoting long-term wellness.

Speech-Language Pathologists

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), often called “speech therapists,” assess and treat individuals with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. They work to improve communication skills and manage swallowing disorders, helping you maintain your quality of life and independence. You will find Speech-Language Pathologists working in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and private homes. They also collaborate with other medical professionals. You might work with speech therapist if you are:

• Recovering from a stroke to regain your ability to speak clearly and swallow safely. They will recommend exercises to strengthen your speech and swallowing muscles, use techniques like modified barium swallow studies to assess and treat swallowing difficulties, and teach you strategies such as pacing your speech and using communication aids to improve clarity and understanding.

• Managing Parkinson’s disease to assist with maintaining speech volume and clarity by using techniques like Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) to amplify your voice. They also demonstrate swallowing techniques to prevent choking and aspiration, such as exercises to strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing and strategies to modify your diet for easier consumption.

• Dealing with dementia by helping you with communication strategies to reduce frustration and enhance your ability to express needs and participate in conversations. This includes using memory aids, simplifying communication tasks, and teaching your caregivers techniques to better interact with you, ensuring a supportive environment.

• Experiencing voice changes due to age or illness, an SLP can suggest vocal exercises to improve voice strength and quality. They may work on breath control, pitch exercises, and techniques to reduce vocal strain, helping you to speak more comfortably and confidently.

• Facing speech difficulties whether it’s stuttering, articulation issues, or other speech disorders, SLPs work with you to improve your speech fluency and clarity. They use techniques such as slow speech practice, articulation drills, and biofeedback devices to help you produce clear and fluent speech.

Speech-Language Pathologists typically do the following to assist you and your family:

• Evaluate speech and swallowing problems to assess your level of difficulty in speech, language, or swallowing through observations and standardized tests.

• Identify goals to improve your communication or swallowing abilities.

• Create individualized plans that address your specific needs, including exercises and techniques to improve speech clarity, voice quality, and fluency.

• Teach speech and language skills by showing you how to make sounds, enhance your vocabulary and sentence structure, and maintain speech fluency.

• Strengthen swallowing muscles if you have had a stroke or other medical condition affecting your ability to swallow safely.

• Provide counseling and education to you and your family on how to cope with communication and swallowing disorders, ensuring you have the support needed for effective management.

Healthcare Support Team – The Crew

Healthcare Support Team members are important to your daily independence and comfort, providing hands-on assistance with everyday activities and ensuring a safe and supportive environment. Nursing Assistants and Orderlies support the medical team by monitoring your health status, assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, and ensuring that your environment is clean and safe. Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides extend this support into your home, helping you maintain your independence by providing personalized support tailored to your needs.

Nursing Assistants & Orderlies

Nursing Assistants and Orderlies are often the principal caregivers, developing close relationships with you due to the extended time spent together. They assist with daily activities such as feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and ambulation under the direction of licensed nursing staff. You will find Nursing Assistants and Orderlies in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and assisted living facilities. Nursing Assistants and Orderlies typically do one or more of the following to assist you and your family:

• Clean and bathe you so personal hygiene is maintained, helping you feel fresh and comfortable.

• Assisting in using the toilet and dressing while respecting your privacy and dignity.

• Turn, reposition, and transfer you when moving between bed and wheelchair to prevent bedsores and maintain mobility.

• Listen to and record health concerns to inform supervisors, helping you receive appropriate assistance.

• Measure vital signs by regularly checking your blood pressure, temperature, and pulse to monitor your health status.

• Serve meals and assist with eating and drinking so you receive proper nutrition and hydration.

• Transport you around the facility by pushing wheelchairs or guiding movement with walkers.

• Clean equipment and areas, change linens, and stock supplies.

• Dispense medications with sufficient training and in compliance with the state regulations.

Home Health & Personal Care Aides

Home Health and Personal Care Aides supply vital support to individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or those who need assistance with daily living activities. They often help older adults and work under the direction of a nurse or other practitioner. Their support can range from basic health monitoring to helping with household tasks, ensuring that you can live comfortably and safely in your home.

You will find Home Health and Personal Care Aides working in various settings, including private homes, group homes, and senior living communities. They often stay with one client for long-term assistance or specific purposes such as hospice. Some aides work with multiple clients, providing shifts to for continuous support. They may also travel to help clients with disabilities stay active in their communities. Home Health and Personal Care Aides typically do one or more of the following to assist you and your family:

• Assist with daily personal tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting, ensuring your personal hygiene is maintained.

• Perform housekeeping tasks to handle laundry, washing dishes, vacuuming, and other household chores to keep your home clean and organized.

• Organize schedules and plan appointments helping you manage your daily schedule and arrange transportation for medical appointments or other outings.

• Prepare meals from shopping for groceries to making recipes that comply with your dietary recommendations for proper nutrition.

• Offer companionship to keep you engaged with your social networks and communities, helping to reduce feelings of isolation.

• Monitor health by checking your pulse, temperature, and respiration rate, and assist with simple prescribed exercises and medications, depending on state regulations.

• Assist with medical equipment by providing special training to use devices like ventilators for proper operation.

Understanding the diverse roles of your healthcare team can empower you and your family to navigate the complexities of elder care with confidence. Each member, from Medical Practitioners and Nursing Professionals to Therapists and Healthcare Support Team, plays an integral part in ensuring you receive comprehensive, compassionate care. By familiarizing yourself with these roles, you can better advocate for your needs and make informed decisions, so your journey through life's last chapters is supported with the highest quality care.

Medical Degree Acronyms

As you navigate the system, you might come across various medical degree acronyms associated with different healthcare professionals. Understanding these acronyms can help you better recognize their qualifications and expertise. Here is a list of common medical degree acronyms you might encounter:

ADN. Associate Degree in Nursing

AGNP. Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

APRN. Advance Practice Registered Nurse

BSN. Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing

BSW. Bachelor of Social Work

CAN. Certified Nursing Assistant

CCM. Certified Case Manager

MA, CCC-SLP or MS, CCC-SLP. Master of Arts or Mater of Science Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology

CMA. Certified Medication Assistant

DO. Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

DPT. Doctor of Physical Therapy

FNP. Family Nurse Practitioners

MD. Doctor of Medicine

MSW. Master of Social Work

OTD. Doctorate in Occupational Therapy

PA-C. Physician Assistant-Certified

PMHNP. Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

RN. Registered Nurse

WHNP. Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner