Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme and Reverse Vending Machines

O’ Herlihy Access Consultancy (OHAC) in partnership with Re-turn, are conducting research into the accessibility of the Deposit Return Scheme in Ireland.

OHAC and Re-turn want to know about your experiences with the Deposit Return Scheme and your use of the reverse vending machines. There are two surveys available to submit your feedback, a standard survey, and an easy-to-read survey.
The surveys will close on the 22nd of November 2024 at 11.45pm.

You can access the surveys by following the QR links, otherwise, you can follow these links:

Survey

Easy-to-Read Survey

You can also register for an online or in-person focus group session.
The details of the focus group sessions are below:

Morning Online Focus Group (Session 1)

Date: Tuesday the 12th of November 2024.
Time:  10am to 11.15am.
Location: Microsoft Teams.

In-person Focus Group (Session 2)

Date: Monday the 18th of November 2024.
Time:  2pm to 3.30pm.
Location:  North Clondalkin Library, 1 Liscarne Close, Rowlagh, Dublin 22, D22 E2Y2.

Evening Online Focus Group (Session 3)

Date:  Tuesday the 19th of November 2024.
Time:  6.30pm to 7.45pm.
Location: Microsoft Teams.

Follow the link below to register for an online or in person focus group.

OHAC Contact

Website: O’Herlihy Access Consultancy (OHAC)
Email: drs@accessconsultancy.ie
Phone number: +353 1 415 12 85

Prostate Cancer Awareness: Supporting Movember at RHS Home Care

November marks an important time for raising awareness about men’s health, largely due to the Movember campaign. This global movement encourages men to grow moustaches throughout November to promote awareness and fundraising efforts for men’s health issues, particularly cancer related to the prostate, testicular cancer, and mental health. At RHS Home Care, we proudly participate in Movember by sharing valuable information to support men’s health and well-being.

Understanding Prostate Health and Its Importance

The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system, located just below the bladder. It plays a vital role in producing seminal fluid, which transports sperm. Cancer of the prostate occurs when cells in the gland begin to grow uncontrollably. While this condition often develops slowly, it can grow and spread rapidly in some cases, necessitating immediate treatment.

The Significance of Regular Screening for Prostate Issues

In Ireland, nearly 4,000 men are diagnosed with this type of cancer each year. This statistic underscores the critical importance of awareness and regular check-ups, as approximately 1 in 7 men will face a diagnosis during their lifetime. With these numbers in mind, understanding and discussing prostate health is more crucial than ever.

Identifying Risk Factors and Symptoms of Prostate Problems

While this condition can affect any man, certain factors may increase the risk:

  • Age: The risk significantly increases after age 50, with most cases found in men over 65.
  • Family History: Men with a family history of prostate issues, particularly if a father or brother has been diagnosed, are at higher risk.
  • Ethnicity: Studies indicate that Black men are at a greater risk, while Asian men may have a lower risk.

Many cases show few symptoms in the early stages, making regular check-ups essential. Symptoms that may indicate prostate health issues include:

  • Difficulty starting or stopping urination
  • A weak or interrupted urine flow
  • Frequent urges to urinate, especially at night
  • Pain or discomfort when sitting due to an enlarged prostate

The Importance of Early Detection in Prostate Cancer

Early detection is key to effective treatment and better outcomes. In Ireland, men over the age of 50 are encouraged to discuss their prostate health with their GP, while those with a family history should initiate this conversation earlier. A simple PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test can help assess the likelihood of issues related to the prostate. Elevated PSA levels can indicate the need for further investigation, although not all elevations are due to cancer. This screening tool may sometimes require additional tests, such as biopsies, to confirm any diagnosis.

The Marie Keating Foundation emphasises the importance of understanding one’s risk and acting early. For men in Ireland, awareness of symptoms and regular health checks can truly make a life-saving difference.

Exploring Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer

When it comes to treating this type of cancer, several approaches may be considered. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including:

  • The stage and grade of the condition
  • PSA level
  • The size of the prostate gland
  • Urinary symptoms
  • General health

Treatment options may aim to eliminate the cancer completely or, if that’s not possible, to control its growth.

  • Active Surveillance: This strategy involves closely monitoring the cancer with regular tests—including blood tests, digital rectal examinations, MRIs, and sometimes biopsies—without immediately beginning treatment. It is typically recommended for low-risk, slow-growing cases to delay potential side effects of treatment.
  • Watchful Waiting: This approach may be an option for men whose health issues make other treatments unsuitable. Regular PSA tests and digital rectal examinations are conducted, focusing on monitoring for any new symptoms. If symptoms or PSA levels indicate progression, further treatment may be considered.
  • Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy): This procedure involves the complete removal of the prostate gland and may be combined with radiotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells.
  • External Beam Radiotherapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and may be combined with hormone therapy, especially in early or locally advanced cases.
  • Hormone Therapy: This treatment reduces testosterone levels, which can help slow or stop cancer growth, and is often combined with radiotherapy.
  • Brachytherapy (Internal Radiotherapy): This involves placing a radioactive source directly into the prostate to kill cancer cells, either as low-dose-rate (LDR) for localized cases or high-dose-rate (HDR) for more aggressive situations.
  • Chemotherapy: While not a common first-line treatment for localized cases, chemotherapy is sometimes recommended for aggressive or advanced cancer that has spread beyond the prostate.

Tips for Reducing Prostate Cancer Risk

While some risk factors, like age and genetics, cannot be changed, men can adopt certain lifestyle choices to help reduce their overall cancer risk:

  • Healthy Diet: Emphasise fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting red and processed meats.
  • Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and support immune function.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking is linked to more aggressive forms of cancer.
  • Limit Alcohol: Consume alcohol in moderation, as excessive intake can increase cancer risks.

Supporting Movember and Men’s Health

At RHS Home Care, we proudly support Movember by promoting awareness, early detection, and overall wellness. The campaign also highlights men’s mental health and testicular cancer, emphasising a holistic approach to men’s well-being. We encourage all men to take proactive steps in managing their health, particularly with awareness of prostate issues.

For more comprehensive information, you can visit the following links:

RHS Home Care Receives €149,787 in Community Recognition Fund!

We are thrilled to announce that Minister Heather Humphreys TD has recently revealed a significant investment of €16.5 million under the #CommunityRecognitionFund 2024, supporting 185 community projects across the country.

We are proud to share that RHS Home Care has been awarded €149,787 as part of this initiative. This generous funding will allow us to further enhance our services and make an even greater impact on the lives of the people we care for. Our team is dedicated to providing top-quality care, and this grant will enable us to continue improving the experience for our clients, their families, and the community.

A Big Congratulations to Our Fellow Recipients:

  • The Growing Tree Integrated Early Years Education and Childcare Facility, Ballaghaderreen
  • The Boyle Family Resource Centre

We are excited to see how these wonderful organisations will use their funding to support local communities. Together, we are building stronger, more resilient services for those who need it most.

Double Celebration in Belmullet! : Farewell to Anne & Recognising our Long-Serving Carers in the North Mayo
Yesterday, we had the honour of hosting a heartwarming event in Belmullet, County Mayo, celebrating two significant milestones.
Firstly, we recognised the incredible dedication and service of our long-serving carers in the North Mayo region. Their unwavering commitment and hard work have profoundly impacted the community, providing essential care and support to those in need.

 

Secondly, we marked the well-deserved retirement of our beloved Area Supervisor, Anne Padden. For the past two decades, Anne has been an invaluable member of our team, serving as an Area Supervisor across Erris, Co Mayo. Her dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts have left a positive mark on the services we have provided across Anne’s area.

 

Anne’s commitment to the cooperative and her area has been unwavering. She has supported countless families, carers, clients, and the HSE, ensuring that our services reach those who need them most. Her leadership, kindness, and expertise have made a significant difference in the lives of many.

 

Thank you, Anne, for your incredible service and the positive impact you’ve made over the years. You will be greatly missed.
Here’s to celebrating our amazing carers and wishing Anne a wonderful retirement filled with joy and relaxation!
   
28 Years of Compassion: Reflecting on RHS Home Care’s Journey and Honoring our Dedicated Staff

For nearly three decades, RHS Home Care has been a pillar of support and compassion in our community. This year, we proudly celebrated 28 years of dedicated service, an incredible journey that has seen us grow and thrive while consistently delivering top-quality care to those in need.

To mark this significant milestone, we hosted a special event at The Abbey Hotel in Roscommon. It was a day filled with reflection, joy, and gratitude as we honoured the journey of RHS Home Care and recognised the unwavering commitment of our long-serving staff members.

A Special Afternoon at The Abbey Hotel

The Abbey Hotel provided the perfect setting for our celebration. The elegant venue was beautifully decorated, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our guests. Attendees had the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, share stories, and reminisce about the many memorable moments over the years.

Honouring Our Long-Serving Staff

One of the highlights of the evening was the awards ceremony, where we honoured our long-serving staff members. Their dedication and hard work have been the backbone of RHS Home Care’s success. We recognised their contributions with special awards, acknowledging their invaluable role in our mission to provide exceptional care.

A Look Back at Our Journey

A presentation showcasing our journey over the past 28 years was a poignant reminder of how far we’ve come. The presentation highlights the milestones and achievements that have defined RHS Home Care. It was a tribute to everyone who has been part of our story – from our dedicated staff to the families and individuals we’ve had the privilege to serve.

 

Looking Forward

While the evening was a time to look back and celebrate, it was also an opportunity to look forward to the future. We are committed to continuing our mission of providing high-quality home care services, adapting to the evolving needs of our community, and maintaining the standards of excellence that have become synonymous with RHS Home Care.

We are particularly excited about our recent expansion into Counties Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal. This expansion represents a significant step forward in our journey, allowing us to bring our compassionate and professional care services to even more individuals and families. We look forward to building strong relationships in these new areas and continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.

Thank You

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the event and to those who have supported us over the years. Your trust and support have been instrumental in our success. Here’s to many more years of service, growth, and making a positive impact in the lives of those we care for.

Our 28th anniversary celebration was not just a milestone; it was a testament to the dedication, compassion, and hard work that defines RHS Home Care. We look forward to continuing this journey with our incredible team and the wonderful community we serve.

 

 

A Guide to Carer’s Benefit, Carer’s Allowance and the Carer’s Support Grant

Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. However, it often involves significant sacrifices, including financial ones. Fortunately, the Department of Social Protection offers various supports to alleviate some of the burdens faced by carers. Among these are Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, and the Carer’s Support Grant.

Carer’s Benefit:

Carer’s Benefit provides short-term financial assistance to individuals who leave employment to provide full-time care to someone in need. This payment can be received for up to 24 months and can be taken in separate periods. Additional payments are available for those caring for multiple individuals.

Eligibility for Carer’s Benefit:

To qualify for Carer’s Benefit, certain criteria must be met:

  • You must be 16 or over.
  • You need to have sufficient social insurance (PRSI) contributions and have been employed for at least 8 weeks in the previous 26 weeks.
  • The person you’re caring for must require full-time care and not reside in a hospital or similar institution.
  • You should not be employed, self-employed, or engaged in other activities for more than 18.5 hours a week.

Carer’s Allowance:

Carer’s Allowance is a weekly payment for individuals providing full-time care to someone requiring support due to age, disability, or illness. Applicants must pass a means test and meet residency and caregiving requirements. Half-rate allowances are available for those receiving other social welfare payments.

Qualification Criteria:

To be entitled to Carer’s Allowance you must:

  • Be 18 or over.
  • Pass a means test.
  • Provide full-time care to a person who is not living in a hospital, convalescent home, or similar institution.
  • Not be employed, self-employed, do voluntary work, training, or any education courses for more than 18.5 hours a week.
  • Be habitually resident in the State.

What is Full-Time Care?

A person is seen as needing full-time care when:

  • They need continual supervision to avoid danger to themselves.
  • They need continual supervision and frequent assistance throughout the day with normal bodily functions.
  • They are likely to require full-time care and attention for at least 12 months.
  • The time spent providing care must not be less than 35 hours per week, over 5-7 days.

The Department of Social Protection (DSP) will decide if you are providing full-time care.

Carer’s Support Grant: Formerly known as the respite grant, the Carer’s Support Grant is automatically paid to Carer’s Allowance recipients in June each year.

For more detailed information on carer’s supports, eligibility criteria, and application processes, you can visit the official Citizens Information website at Citizens Information. There, you’ll find comprehensive resources and guidance to help you navigate the various assistance programs available to carers.

Falls Prevention Hints and Tips

As we age, our risk of falling increases due to various factors such as changes in balance, vision impairment, and other health issues. However, the good news is that many falls can be prevented, and there are several steps we can take to reduce our risk. In this post, we’ll explore some simple yet effective tips and advice to help you stay safe and prevent falls.

Trip Hazards

One of the first areas to address in falls prevention is eliminating trip hazards around the home. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Secure Rugs and Mats: Take up loose rugs and mats or secure them with slip-resistant backing to prevent slipping accidents.
  • Reduce Clutter: Keep your living space tidy and organized to minimize the risk of tripping over objects.
  • Secure Cables and Wires: Ensure that cables and wires from electronics are safely secured to avoid tripping hazards.
  • Adequate Lighting: Make sure that hallways, stairways, and outdoor walkways are well-lit to improve visibility and reduce the risk of falls, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Trim Bushes and Shrubs: Keep outdoor paths clear by trimming bushes and shrubs to prevent obstacles in your path.

If you need further advice on making your home safer, don’t hesitate to ask your GP to refer you to an Occupational Therapist.

Bathroom Safety

The bathroom can be a particularly hazardous area due to wet surfaces. Here’s how you can enhance safety:

  • Install Grab Rails: Place grab rails in the shower, bath, or near the toilet to provide extra support when needed.
  • Non-Slip Mats: Use non-slip mats in the shower, bath, and on bathroom floors to prevent slipping accidents.
Around Your Home

There are several additional measures you can take to make your home safer:

  • Place Items at Waist Level: Store everyday items at waist level to avoid reaching or bending over excessively.
  • Night Lights: Install night lights in hallways and landings to improve visibility during nighttime trips to the bathroom.
  • Handrails: Install handrails in areas where you need extra support, such as staircases and hallways.
  • Repair Flooring: Repair loose carpet and uneven flooring to prevent tripping hazards.
Stairs

Stairs pose a significant risk for falls. Consider the following precautions:

  • Second Bannister Rail: Install a second bannister rail on stairs for added stability and support.
Health

Maintaining good health is essential for falls prevention:

  • Medication Review: Regularly review your medications with your doctor to ensure they don’t contribute to dizziness or balance issues.
  • Bone Health: Discuss your bone health with your GP, especially if you’re at risk of osteoporosis or fractures.
  • Regular Checkups: Have your eyesight and hearing checked regularly, as impaired senses can increase the risk of falls.
  • Stay Active: Keep up with regular exercise to maintain strength and balance.
Useful Everyday Tips

Here are some additional everyday tips to help prevent falls:

  • Watch Your Step: Be cautious of uneven ground, especially when outdoors.
  • Use Walking Aids: If recommended by your healthcare provider, make sure to use any prescribed walking aids.
  • Proper Footwear: Wear flat shoes with rubber soles for better traction and stability.
  • Wearable Alarms: If you have a wearable alarm, wear it at all times to quickly call for help in case of a fall.
  • Well-Fitting Clothes: Avoid wearing clothing that may trip you up, such as trailing trousers or belts.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers near your phone for quick access.
  • Take Your Time: Avoid rushing and take your time when moving around to reduce the risk of slips and falls.

By implementing these simple tips and making your environment safer, you can significantly reduce your risk of falls and maintain your independence as you age.

Nutrition & Hydration Week – Malnutrition in Older Adults

Malnutrition among older adults poses significant health risks and challenges. Recent studies, including one from 2020, revealed that over a third of elderly individuals admitted to hospitals were either malnourished or at risk. It’s crucial to recognise the signs, understand the causes, and take proactive steps to prevent malnutrition, ensuring the health and well-being of our elderly loved ones.

Understanding Malnutrition:

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), malnutrition encompasses deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients. This includes both undernutrition and overweight, obesity, and diet-related non-communicable diseases.

Signs of Malnutrition:

Identifying signs of malnutrition is crucial. These include unintentional weight loss, chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, decreased appetite or loss of interest in food, cognitive impairment, slow healing from injuries or illnesses, increased susceptibility to infections, changes in mood or behaviour, skin, hair, or dental problems, swelling in the legs, fragile bones, and heightened risk of fractures, as well as mobility issues.

Causes of Malnutrition:

Several factors contribute to malnutrition among the elderly, including limited financial resources for purchasing nutritious foods, chronic illnesses or digestive disorders affecting nutrient absorption, medication side effects suppressing appetite, dental problems, or mobility limitations hindering eating, social isolation leading to decreased food intake, and age-related changes in metabolism and nutrient requirements.

elderly man eating dinner

Preventive Measures:

Preventing malnutrition requires a proactive approach from caregivers. Here are some key preventive measures:

Nutrition-Based Preventive Measures:

  • Meal Planning: Designate and prepare well-balanced meals in advance to promote healthier eating habits.
  • Medication Consideration: Be vigilant of medication side effects that may affect appetite and consult healthcare professionals for adjustments if necessary.
  • Social Engagement: Encourage social interactions during mealtimes to enhance enjoyment and stimulate appetite.
  • Healthy Snacking: Incorporate nutrient-rich snacks into daily routines to provide additional nourishment, especially for those with reduced appetites.

Other Supportive Measures:

  • Regular Monitoring: Keep track of the older adult’s weight, appetite, and overall health regularly to identify any changes or concerns.
  • Encouragement and Support: Provide positive reinforcement and encouragement during meals to motivate older adults to eat and enjoy their food.
  • Variety in Meals: Offer a diverse range of foods to ensure a balanced diet and prevent mealtime boredom.
  • Assistance with Eating: Offer assistance with meal preparation, serving, and feeding if needed, especially for individuals with physical limitations or cognitive impairments.
  • Educational Resources: Seek out educational resources or nutrition programs for caregivers to enhance their knowledge and skills in proper nutrition and meal planning for older adults.
  • Regular Exercise: Encourage regular physical activity to stimulate appetite and promote overall health and well-being.

Seeking Professional Support:

Seeking professional guidance is vital for addressing malnutrition effectively. Healthcare professionals can offer tailored dietary advice, recommend supplements, and provide counselling for underlying mental health issues contributing to malnutrition.

By raising awareness, understanding the signs, and implementing preventive measures, caregivers can significantly contribute to combating malnutrition among the elderly. Prioritising nutrition and overall well-being ensures that our elderly loved ones lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing malnutrition-related issues, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from healthcare professionals for appropriate support and intervention.

Nutrition and Hydration Week: Easy Ways to Drink More Water

As we celebrate Nutrition and Hydration Week, it’s a good time to talk about something really important: drinking enough water. Water is super important for our bodies, but lots of us find it hard to drink as much as we should. Let’s chat about why drinking water is so important and find some fun ways to drink more of it, including tasty recipes for flavoured water.

Why Drinking Water Matters

Water is like the fuel that keeps our bodies running smoothly. It helps our body do lots of important things, like keeping us cool, moving around nutrients, and getting rid of waste. When we don’t drink enough water, we can feel tired, get headaches, find it hard to concentrate, and even have bigger health problems in the long run.

Tips for Drinking More Water

  1. Set Reminders: Sometimes, we forget to drink water during our busy days. Set reminders on your phone or computer to remind you to take regular sips of water.
  2. Carry a Water Bottle: Keep a refillable water bottle with you wherever you go. It makes it much easier to drink water when you have it with you all the time.
  3. Add Some Flavour: If plain water doesn’t excite you, try adding some flavour! You can add slices of fruit or some herbs to your water to make it taste better.
  4. Keep Track: Try keeping track of how much water you drink each day in a journal or on your phone. It’s easier to drink more water when you can see how much you’ve already had.
  5. Eat Water-Rich Foods: Snack on foods that have lots of water in them, like cucumber, watermelon, strawberries, and lettuce. They help keep you hydrated and give you extra vitamins and minerals.

Tasty Flavoured Water Recipes

  1. Citrus Splash: Pop some slices of lemon, lime, and orange into a jug of water. Leave it in the fridge for a while to let the flavours mix together. It’s like a zesty party for your taste buds!
  2. Cucumber Mint Cooler: Put some slices of cucumber and a few mint leaves in a pitcher of water. Stick it in the fridge for an hour or so before drinking. It’s super refreshing, especially on a hot day.
  3. Berry Blast: Mix up some strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in a jug of water. Let it sit in the fridge for a bit to get all juicy and delicious. It’s like drinking a fruity rainbow!
  4. Tropical Treat: Chuck in some pineapple and mango chunks into your water, along with a splash of coconut water. Leave it in the fridge overnight for a taste of the tropics in your own home.
  5. Herbal Harmony: Drop some rosemary sprigs, thyme, and a squeeze of lemon into a jug of water. Let it hang out for a couple of hours before serving. It’s like a spa day for your taste buds!

two glasses of water with lemon and lime in it perfect for hydration

By making hydration a priority and trying out these simple tricks, you can make sure you’re getting enough water every day. Whether you like plain water, flavoured water, or water-rich foods, staying hydrated is a small but important step towards feeling your best.

Happy Nutrition and Hydration Week!

Nutrition and Hydration Week 2024 – Join our Nutrition and Hydration Challenge

Today marks the beginning of Nutrition and Hydration Week, and we at RHS Home Care are excited to be part of the global effort to highlight the importance of healthy eating and staying hydrated. This week presents an opportunity for us to emphasise our commitment to supporting the well-being of our clients and community.

Nutrition and Hydration Week serves as a poignant reminder of the indispensable role that balanced nutrition and proper hydration play in maintaining overall health and vitality. Particularly for older adults, prioritising these factors is crucial for enhancing their well-being and quality of life.

Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing valuable tips and information on our website and social media platforms. We believe that by increasing awareness about health, individuals can make informed decisions for themselves.

To kick off Nutrition and Hydration Week, we’re launching a simple challenge that anyone can join in with. These tasks are designed not only to assist during this week but also to encourage good habits for the long term. (Click/tap the image for a downloadable and  printable version.)

nutrition and hydration challenge sheet

By taking on these simple tasks, you can improve your health and well-being now and in the future. We encourage you to join us on this journey and share your experiences.

Let’s make Nutrition and Hydration Week a time to focus on our health and make positive changes together. Keep an eye on our social media for daily updates and tips.