. July/August 2025 www.DesertHealthNews.com www.cvalzheimers.org (760) 776-3100 l cvalzheimers.org 75105 Merle Dr., Suite 800, Palm Desert, CA 92211 Prepare for your future with free, comprehensive and conndential assessments and counseling. The ACV Screening center is here for those with a family history of or questions about cognitive impairment. Schedule your screening, today. Through the Generations The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 16 www.myhealthmyadvocate.com Our goal is to improve patient experience and outcomes by ensuring clients understand and receive appropriate treatment, quality care, and accurate billing. • Talk with doctors on your behalf • Review treatment plans • Unravel medical billing • Provide in-hospital bedside care • Assist with hospital discharge to home or other facilities • Offer wellness visits Offering 30 years of experience navigating the health care system. Tammy Porter DNP, MLS, RN-BSN, CPHQ, CCM (760) 851-4116 myhealthmyadvocate.com Serving Coachella Valley, Riverside, San Bernardino and the surrounding areas, and nationwide virtually. A Nurse Advocate Your Trusted Guide Through the Health Care System Simply Caring For You www.modernicareoptometry.com Improving Life by Improving Sight Susan Shahriari, OD "Quality care, friendly service and stylish results!" — Lauren Del Sarto (760) 674.7272 44435 Town Center Way, Suite B Palm Desert, CA 92260 modernicareoptometry.com Full Service and Specialty Contact Lens Clinic Providing individualized care for: Hard-to-fit Contacts for Post-surgical RK/Lasik Corneal Keratoconus • RGP Scleral Lens Cataract Care • Dry Eye Management Glaucoma Care • Exam with Digital Refraction www.canaanhomecare.com Personalized in-home care solutions for all of life’s cognitive and mobility challenges ADLs: dressing • ambulation bathing • transferring toileting • grooming IADLs: meal prep • housekeeping errands • medication reminders transportation Dedicated concierge care manager and professional caregivers available 24/7 10% OFF first service 41-750 Rancho Las Palmas, Ste. N-1 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 CanaanHomeCare.com HCO# 334700239 760.423.8339 In recent years, telehealth, or video and phone doctor visits, has become a significant means for older adults to access health care. This shift, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has made it easier for seniors to consult with health care providers from the comfort of their homes. While some seniors may be apprehensive about this change, there are many benefits: Convenience and accessibility. Many older adults face mobility challenges that make traveling to appointments difficult. Telehealth eliminates these barriers connecting seniors with doctors and specialists without the hassle of transportation. Chronic disease management. Telehealth is particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. With remote monitoring tools, health care providers can track patients’ blood pressure, blood sugar and more. This monitoring allows doctors and nurse practitioners to follow patients more closely and make timely adjustments to their treatment plans. Mental health support. Many seniors experience mental health challenges, such as feelings of isolation and depression. Telehealth offers easy access to therapists and mental health professionals, making it more convenient for seniors to get the help they need. Research indicates that teletherapy is often as effective as in-person sessions. Overcoming technology barriers While telehealth offers many benefits, some older adults face challenges related to technology and may not be comfortable using smartphones or computers. In some areas, older adults may lack reliable internet services. There may also be worries about sharing personal health information online. Below are some tips for having successful telehealth visits: • Prepare in advance. Make a list of questions and concerns to discuss with your doctor. Have your current medication list and any symptoms you’ve experienced. • Test your technology. Ensure your device works well. Check your internet connection, camera and microphone before the appointment. Have a test call with a family member or friend before the appointment, or have them help you set up for the call. • Choose a comfortable location. Find a quiet space with good lighting to minimize distractions during your visit. • Follow up. Before your appointment ends, ensure you understand any instructions or treatments prescribed. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor for clarification before hanging up. Telehealth is making health care more accessible for older adults, allowing them to receive timely medical care without extensive travel. As they become more comfortable with these online services, seniors can take a more active role in managing their health. Continued support from health care providers will be essential in helping seniors navigate this new landscape, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life. Dr. Porter is CEO and founder of MyHealth.MyAdvocate in Palm Desert. She is an experienced health care professional with over 30 years of nursing practice dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of healthcare processes and advocating for patients, families and caregivers. Immediate assistance is available by calling (760) 851.4116. www.myhealthmyadvocate.com The Doctor is Calling Telehealth aids access to care for seniors By Tammy Porter, DNP, MLS, RN-BSN, CPHQ, CCM
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