–as told to the VNA by Home Health patient Oliver Stoughton
I have had Parkinson’s disease for about 15 years, and it has advanced significantly. I primarily use a wheelchair for mobility but can still walk a little with the help of a walker. This means I rely heavily on support from caregivers, aids, and organizations like VNA, which has been instrumental in coordinating my activities with medical professionals.
My care has involved physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. The VNA has also helped facilitate the regular changing of my catheter every three weeks, which is crucial for my health. We’ve encountered challenges, particularly with urinary tract infections (UTIs), as I can have issues with my bladder. Fortunately, VNA has received standing approval to test my urine when symptoms suggest an infection. Whenever I believe I have a problem, I notify VNA, and they can arrange for a sample to be taken. This sample is then sent to Quest Diagnostics, which contacts my urologist to prescribe the necessary medication.
VNA has been incredibly reliable, always available when we’ve had to reach out, even on weekends or late at night. The nurses are excellent, particularly Roy Kain. He is outstanding and manages everything with professionalism. He often brings a trainee with him, allowing them to learn as he works. We often share jokes during these visits, which makes the experience more pleasant.
VNA’s talented home health team not only offers care for patients with Parkinson’s, like Oliver, but also many other ailments. Our talented home health team tailors every patient’s plan of care to their specific needs. Some patients only require a few days or weeks for issues such as post-surgical follow-up, while others need long-term care for chronic illnesses such as COPD, diabetes or heart disease. Whatever a patient’s health needs are, they will be met by compassionate, skilled clinicians in the comfort of the patient’s home.
VNA also offers private care and hospice, affording patients whose health needs change a seamless, continuum of care. For more information about the VNA, visit www.vnatc.com.
