Providing compassionate in-home and out-patient care in Plymouth, NH

Celebrating Physical Therapy Month & Honoring our Exceptional Physical Therapists

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health proudly joins the nation in celebrating Physical Therapy Month this October. As we take this opportunity to raise awareness about the crucial role of physical therapy in improving lives, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team of home health physical therapists who make a profound impact on our patients’ well-being.In home physical therapy from Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

This year, we are delighted to recognize the remarkable contributions of our outstanding physical therapists:

  1. Ernie Roy, PT, DPT
  2. Lauren Youngs, PT
  3. Judy Bolger, PT
  4. Suzanne Sportiello, PT
  5. Stacey Barney, PT, DPT
  6. Pam Bello, PTA

These healthcare heroes have gone above and beyond in providing compassionate, personalized care to our homebound patients, helping them regain strength, mobility, and independence in the comfort of their own homes.

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in addressing a wide range of health conditions, and our expert team at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is equipped to provide comprehensive care tailored to individual needs. Home health physical therapy can assist patients in managing and improving various health conditions, including but not limited to:

  1. Orthopedic Injuries: Our physical therapists are adept at helping individuals recover from fractures, joint replacements, and musculoskeletal injuries, enhancing their mobility and reducing pain.
  2. Neurological Disorders: We specialize in providing therapy for patients with conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries, promoting better functional outcomes.
  3. Cardiopulmonary Conditions: Our skilled therapists work with individuals suffering from heart and lung conditions, enhancing their cardiovascular fitness and pulmonary function.
  4. Balance and Falls Prevention: We focus on improving balance, gait, and coordination to minimize the risk of falls among our elderly patients, ensuring their safety at home.
  5. Chronic Pain Management: Our holistic approach to physical therapy aims to reduce chronic pain and improve the quality of life for individuals dealing with ongoing discomfort.
  6. Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: We facilitate post-operative recovery, helping patients regain strength and mobility after surgical procedures.

It’s important to understand what “homebound” means. A person is considered homebound when they have a condition (medical, psychiatric, or social) that makes it extremely challenging or medically inadvisable to leave their home. This status is evaluated by a healthcare professional and is a crucial criterion for eligibility for home health services like physical therapy.

We invite everyone in our community to contact Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health to learn more about how our home health physical therapy services can benefit you or your loved ones. Our dedicated team is here to provide support, education, and compassionate care. You can reach us at 603-536-2232.

As we celebrate Physical Therapy Month, we extend our deepest gratitude to our exceptional team of physical therapists at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. Your unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our patients is an inspiration to us all.

Announcing our Fall Charleston Wrap Fundraiser!

Charleston Wrap Fall fundraiser, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NHPemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is thrilled to announce the launch of our fall Charleston Wrap fundraiser, offering an array of delightful gift options for the upcoming holiday season and beyond. This fundraiser, which runs through October 19th and aims to raise funds to support our under-insured patients and free support groups. By participating, you can make a difference in the lives of those in need while checking off your holiday shopping list.

With over 2,500 gift ideas, the Charleston Wrap fundraiser has something to suit every occasion and taste. Whether you’re looking for holiday gifts, hostess presents, corporate tokens of appreciation, or even a little something just for yourself, we’ve got you covered. Home delivery and FREE shipping available!

Here are some of the fantastic items you can find:

  1. Gift Wrap and Accessories: Elevate your gift-giving game with beautiful wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows. Charleston wrap’s signature wraps are reversible, eco-friendly, and printed on 100%recyclable paper using water-based inks.
  2. Candles: Set the mood with a selection of aromatic candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  3. Bel Piatto Fine Cookware: Discover high-quality cookware that will inspire your culinary adventures.
  4. Scarves/Hats/Bags/Totes/Jewelry: Stay stylish and on-trend with a variety of fashionable accessories.
  5. Boutique Gourmet Candy: Satisfy your sweet tooth with delectable gourmet candy options.
  6. Personalize It! Select from 1,500+ personalized items to create the perfect gift; even personalize your wrapping paper!

By participating in our fall Charleston Wrap fundraiser, you not only find exceptional gifts but also contribute to a meaningful cause. Your support helps us reach our fundraising goal of $5,000, enabling us to continue providing essential care and support to those in need.

CLICK HERE for a direct link to our Charleston Wrap store. It’s super easy and the proceeds of every purchase will make a big difference in our fundraising efforts this year.

Our fundraiser only lasts a few short weeks, ending on October 19th, 2023. We thank you for your support and hope that you will tell friends and family to join in on the fun.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Welcomes Susan Varnum, LICSW, APHSW-C, as Director of Home Care, Palliative Care, and Hospice

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, a leading provider of compassionate home-based medical care, is pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Varnum, LICSW, APHSW-C as the new Director of Home Care, Palliative Care, and Hospice. With over 20 years of experience as a dedicated social worker, including nine years specializing in hospice care, Susan brings a wealth of expertise and a strong commitment to improving the lives of patients and their caregivers.Susan Varnum, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

Susan Varnum holds a master’s degree in social work and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). Her profound understanding of the complex emotional and practical challenges faced by patients and caregivers in the home care setting makes her an invaluable addition to the Pemi-Baker team. Susan’s passion for palliative care and her dedication to improving end-of-life experiences have earned her the Advanced Palliative Hospice Social Work Certification (APHSW-C) and a post-MSW certificate in Palliative and End-of-Life Care.

In her role as Director of Home Care, Palliative Care, and Hospice, Susan Varnum will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care to individuals in their homes. She will work closely with a team of experienced professionals to ensure that patients and their families receive the support they need during their challenging times.

Reflecting on her new position, Susan Varnum stated, “I want to make a difference in people’s lives and provide the best home-based medical care to patients and caregivers to make their challenging time a little easier. It’s important for patients and caregivers to have support from experienced, knowledgeable professionals so they can heal and meet their personal health care goals.”

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is thrilled to have Susan Varnum join their organization and looks forward to her contributions in enhancing the quality of care provided to their patients. Her vast experience, compassionate approach, and dedication to improving end-of-life experiences align perfectly with Pemi-Baker’s mission to support individuals and their families through their healthcare journey.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

How to Plan For Recovery at Home After Surgery

In this blog, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health brings to light the services you can receive after surgery and how to be prepared before your surgery. There are a lot of things to think about when preparing for major surgery. What are the risks? Will you be in pain? Have you thought about what help you’ll need to recover? Will you be able to stay at home while you heal? Although every surgical recovery is different, the goals of home-based clinical care after surgery include patient and family involvement, shared decision-making, and flexibility around changes in plans to meet your needs.

Having home care services from Pemi-Baker can help you recover more quickly, keep you safe at home, and just as importantly, help you avoid another hospital stay.

Planning ahead for care

Although it’s not always possible to schedule your surgery in advance, you should understand beforehand how long your recovery may take, what you will and will not be able to do, and what help you will need while you are home.

Speaking to your doctor or your hospital discharge planner about home health care services prior to surgery will help you prepare for when you go home again. If your surgery is the result of an emergency situation, a family member or other caregiver could arrange for services on your behalf.

Additionally, since outpatient (day) surgery has become a much more common option, many people find themselves recovering from surgery at home the same day as their procedure. Some are unprepared to effectively manage their pain and discomfort, making it difficult for them to perform even routine tasks or basic personal care. They may be weak and tired. Managing multiple medications can be confusing and properly caring for the incision site can be challenging. The trusted, compassionate staff at Pemi-Baker will help.

How home health care helps your recovery

Home health care is personalized to fit your needs, based on your physician’s instructions and your own personal preferences. Depending on the complexity of the surgery, you may receive a single type of care or a combination of services. Nurses can provide services including wound care and medication management, while home health aides can provide assistance with personal care including bathing, dressing, and light housekeeping. Physical and occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, and social workers also play an important role in the recovery process. With orders from your doctor and input from you about your needs, the Pemi-Baker team will design a plan of care to reach your goals and help you recover.

What you can do ahead of the surgery

You can make your recovery at home go a lot smoother if you take a little time to plan ahead. Ask your doctor what you won’t be able to do at first while you’re healing up, and get help from friends and family to prepare your living space. You need to be careful about falling after an operation. “People get dizzy because they haven’t eaten for a few days and from being in bed,” says Jenn Stewart, RN, Clinical Supervisor. “You may need to get a walker or crutches to cut down your risk of a fall. Other tips to avoid stumbling would be using night lights in hallways, sleeping in a bedroom near a bathroom, wearing flat shoes or slippers and reducing the clutter in your home” said Stewart.

  • Do I need to make changes to my house? This depends on what kind of operation you have. If it’s a complicated one, like a joint replacement or stomach surgery, you may need to tweak a few things in the bathroom or bedroom for easier access.
  • Stairs: If you can’t climb up and down them after your surgery, you might have to make some changes. For instance, if your bedroom is upstairs, you may need to sleep on a lower floor for a while. Ask your friends or family to move your bed before you go into the hospital, or check into renting a hospital bed if you need it.
  • Equipment: After some types of surgery, you’ll need to get special gear at home. Plan ahead if your doctor tells you that you need oxygen tanks, elevated toilets, shower seats, supplies to care for your cut, or other items. Get in touch with your insurance company to see if they’re part of your coverage.
  • Stock your pantry: Ask your doctor if you have to stick to a certain diet. Make sure you’re well supplied with the right food before you get back home. Since you may feel tired during your recovery, prepare some meals before your operation and put them in the freezer.

There are many things you and your family can do to prepare for your surgery and give you the best possible recovery. Make arrangements in advance if your surgeon suggests getting a nurse, physical therapist, or health aide. Make sure you schedule the first visit before you leave the hospital. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health can see you in less than 24 hours of arriving home.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

~Written by Anna Swanson

Loss & Grief: Some basics in processing personal grief

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is offering a FREE grief and loss support series starting Tuesday, February 15th running through March 29th, 2022. Late morning and early evening times will accommodate all schedules and we invite anyone experiencing a personal loss to join us.

Since Elizabeth Kubler-Ross’ pioneering work On Death and Dying in 1969, research and study on the very human experiences of grief and loss have come a very long way. The “five stages of grief” entered quickly into the storehouse of wisdom in the popular culture. Many people can tick off “Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance” when asked about the process of grieving. As helpful as these categories can be in opening up discussion, the truth is that “stage theory” has fallen on hard times in psychological studies.

Put simply, life experience is much too dynamic and deeply personal to fall into neat and progressive stages that follow one upon the other in predictable fashion. Kubler-Ross herself did not see her theory as being that way. It took our characteristically American linear way of thinking to do that. Generally speaking, we like things neat, but life is messy. Over the course of almost four decades, other theorists have included additional features in grieving, such as “shock”, “guilt”, “retreating”, “reflection”, “isolation”, and “working through”. There is a lot to consider if we are in the thick of trying to come to terms with a significant loss that has come into our life.

In a practical effort to begin to explore the intricate web of responses and reactions that human beings experience following upon significant life-losses, the Hospice program of Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health in Plymouth will be offering a series on “Loss and Grief: Some Basics” as part of its Bereavement services. The series consists of six sessions. Each session will include a brief educational presentation, a reflective exercise to assist participants in focusing on their experience of loss, and a time for sharing, questions, and discussion. Sessions will include such topics as: “My Concept of Loss”, “Evaluating My Loss”, “Coping Skills”, “Manifestations of Grief”, “What Helps and What Hurts?”, “Acceptance”, “My New Reality”, and “Recognizing My Strengths”.

The six week series will be offered on Tuesdays at two different times: a late morning group 11am-12:30pm or an evening group 5:30pm -7pm. In-person participation is limited to five people for each group; there will be hand sanitizer, socially-distanced seating and masks are required. Please pre-register with Guy Tillson, Bereavement Coordinator by email (gtillson@pbhha.org) or by phone (603-536-2232). Pre-registration required by Tuesday, February 8th, 2022. Ask about possible accommodations virtually via ZOOM.

With over 55 years of experience, serving clients from 29 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and Community Programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver Support Groups and Grief and Bereavement Support Groups. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @PBCH4

The Rewards of Being a Hospice Volunteer

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021.  When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community.  A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers.  My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida.  The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure.  I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others.  PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals.  Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

Connie C.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2022-06-27T12:20:25-04:00

Connie C.

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021.  When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community.  A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers.  My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida.  The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure.  I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others.  PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals.  Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

You give of yourselves day & night without end!

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings-

Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated.  I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him.

And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME!  Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated.  You give of yourselves day & night without end!  God Bless you and thank you!

Pam O.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-06-11T07:31:14-04:00

Pam O.

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings- Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated.  I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him. And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME!  Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated.  You give of yourselves day & night without end!  God Bless you and thank you!

“My home physical therapy was fantastic.”

Pemi-Baker provided very good home therapy. All their therapists were pleasant, helpful in offering suggestions for better functioning after surgery, and practiced good health protocols. They were also very prompt in showing up for scheduled appointments.

Elizabeth B.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2019-11-07T12:26:12-05:00

Elizabeth B.

Pemi-Baker provided very good home therapy. All their therapists were pleasant, helpful in offering suggestions for better functioning after surgery, and practiced good health protocols. They were also very prompt in showing up for scheduled appointments.

“Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know.”

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

Terry W.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T12:43:19-05:00

Terry W.

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

“Everyone is so understanding supportive and kind.”

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from Pemi-Baker and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you for your excellent care and compassion.

Leila L.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T13:19:24-05:00

Leila L.

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from Pemi-Baker and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you for your excellent care and compassion.

“Pemi-Baker Hospice services provided kind, professional, competent services every step of the way-and even vaccinated us all for Covid/19!””

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

Paula W.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T12:31:13-05:00

Paula W.

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

Your courage during Covid-19 does not go unnoticed

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-06-11T06:27:43-04:00

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!
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Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health