How to Cope with the War in Israel: A Guide for Seniors

How to Cope with the War in Israel: A Guide for Seniors

Sep 22, 2024

The ongoing conflict in Israel has created immense challenges, especially for seniors, people with disabilities, and their families. Elderly individuals face heightened risks due to physical vulnerabilities and the emotional toll of living in a constant state of fear and uncertainty. This guide offers practical advice on how to cope with the War in Israel, care for seniors, and access essential support services during this difficult time.

How Seniors and Their Families Can Cope with the Current State of War in Israel

Important Tips at a Glance:

  • Stay Prepared: Know your emergency plan and the safest places in your home.
  • Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Have essential numbers accessible at all times.
  • Ensure Home Safety: Prevent falls by keeping living spaces clutter-free and well-lit.
  • Stay Connected: Regularly communicate with family, friends, or caregivers.
  • Use Available Resources: Reach out to organizations that provide assistance.

Cope with the War in Israel by Handling the Emotional State of Seniors

Seniors often feel more vulnerable during times of war, particularly if they live alone or in areas prone to attacks. The lack of access to safe rooms or bomb shelters exacerbates their exposure to dangers like sirens and rockets. Common emotional reactions that do not allow to cope with the war in Israel, include fear, anxiety, depression, and trauma.

Strategies to Manage Emotions:

  • Stay Connected:
    • Ensure regular phone calls or visits from family members, friends, or volunteers.
    • Use video calls to provide face-to-face interaction when physical visits aren’t possible.
  • Engage in Activities:
    • Encourage hobbies like reading, puzzles, knitting, or listening to music.
    • Introduce light exercises or stretching routines suitable for their physical ability.
  • Seek Professional Help:
    • Access free therapy sessions to help process emotions and deal with trauma.
    • Programs like Get Help Israel offer virtual therapy services, including free and subsidized sessions for those affected by the war.

Emergency Emotional Support Contacts that may assists to cope with the war in Israel:

Special Considerations for Individuals with Disabilities and Dementia

People with dementia or disabilities are particularly vulnerable in conflict zones. They may struggle to understand the situation and cope with the war in Israel, leading to increased agitation, confusion, or dangerous behaviors like wandering during sirens.

Key Recommendations:

  • Maintain Routine and Provide Reassurance:
    • Keep a consistent daily schedule to offer a sense of normalcy.
    • Use calming language and reassure them during moments of fear or confusion.
  • Ensure a Safe Environment:
    • Remove hazards such as loose rugs, electrical cords, and clutter.
    • Install safety measures like grab bars in bathrooms and handrails on stairs.
  • Provide Physical Assistance:
    • Have a caregiver or family member present to help with mobility and evacuation if necessary.
    • Use mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs as needed.

Cope with the War in Israel – Dos and Don’ts: At Home and Outside

When at Home:

  • Do:
    • Prepare an Emergency Plan: Identify the safest room (preferably a bomb shelter or reinforced area) and practice getting there quickly.
    • Keep Essentials Accessible: Have medications, a charged phone, flashlight, water, and non-perishable food within easy reach.
    • Prevent Falls: Ensure pathways are clear, use non-slip mats, and keep the home well-lit.
  • Don’t:
    • Leave Seniors Unattended: Especially if they have cognitive impairments or mobility challenges.
    • Overlook Emotional Needs: Ignoring their fears can increase anxiety and stress.

When Outside:

  • Do:
    • Plan Safe Routes: Know the locations of nearby shelters and avoid areas without protection.
    • Stay Informed: Use mobile apps or radios to receive real-time alerts.
    • Assist with Mobility: Provide help to those using walkers or wheelchairs to reach safety promptly.
  • Don’t:
    • Panic: Stay calm to help seniors feel secure.
    • Take Unnecessary Risks: Avoid crowded places or areas that may be targeted.

Who to Turn to for Help

Knowing where to seek assistance is crucial during crises.

Emergency Numbers:

Below is a list of essential emergency services and their hotline numbers:

 
Service Hotline Number
Israel Police (Emergency) 100
Israel Police (Non-Emergency) 110
Ambulance – Magen David Adom 101
United Hatzalah 1221
National Fire and Rescue Authority 102
Home Front Command (Pikud Ha’Oref) 104
Israel Electric Corporation 103
Municipality or Regional Council 106
ERAN – Emotional Assistance for New Olim *3201
NATAL – Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center 1-800-363-363
Nefesh B’Nefesh (NBN) Answers *3680

 

Support Organizations:

Below is a list of organizations that provide various types of assistance to seniors and people with disabilities to cope with the war in Israel:

 
Name Description and Type of Assistance Contact Details
Yad Sarah Provides medical equipment loans, emergency alarms, transportation services, and home care support Phone: 02-644-4455
Website: www.yadsarah.org
ERAN 24/7 emotional support hotline, providing crisis intervention and mental health support Phone: 1201
Website: www.eran.org.il
Eshel Develops and provides services for the elderly, including emergency assistance and support programs Phone: 02-655-7128
Website: www.eshelnet.org.il
Nefesh B’Nefesh Assists elderly immigrants, providing guidance on healthcare, housing, and emergency services Phone: 1-866-4-ALIYAH
Website: www.nbn.org.il
Reut Provides emergency assistance, including food delivery and home care services for the elderly and disabled Phone: 03-964-4444
Website: www.reut.org.il
Melabev Offers support for elderly with dementia, including emergency care and family guidance Phone: 02-655-5826
Website: www.melabev.org
Access Israel Promotes accessibility and provides information on emergency services for people with disabilities Phone: 09-744-7814
Website: www.aisrael.org
ILAN Assists people with neuromuscular disabilities, providing emergency support and equipment Phone: 03-524-8141
Website: www.ilan-israel.co.il
Magen David Adom Emergency medical services, including special assistance for the elderly and disabled Emergency: 101
Website: www.mdais.org
Home Front Command Provides emergency instructions and assistance, including special guidance for the elderly and disabled Phone: 104
Website: www.oref.org.il

Local Municipal Services:

Contact your local authority for assistance with food, medical care, and transportation. Below are contact details for leading local municipalities:

 
Municipality Phone Number Website
Jerusalem 106 www.jerusalem.muni.il
Tel Aviv-Yafo 106 www.tel-aviv.gov.il
Haifa 106 www.haifa.muni.il
Be’er Sheva 106 www.beer-sheva.muni.il
Rishon LeZion 106 www.rishonlezion.muni.il
Ashdod 106 www.ashdod.muni.il
Netanya 106 www.netanya.muni.il
Holon 106 www.holon.muni.il
Bnei Brak 106 www.bnei-brak.muni.il
Ashkelon 106 www.ashkelon.muni.il

Note: Dialing 106 connects you to the municipal hotline in most cities.

Additional Relevant Information

The Importance of Mental Health Support:

  • Long-Term Effects:
    • Seniors may experience post-traumatic stress even after immediate dangers have passed.
  • Supportive Programs:
    • Organizations like JDC’s Supportive Community provide not only physical care but also social activities that promote emotional resilience.

Preventing Falls and Injuries:

  • Home Modifications:
    • Install handrails, grab bars, and non-slip flooring.
    • Ensure adequate lighting throughout the home.
  • Assistive Devices:
    • Use canes, walkers, or wheelchairs as needed.
  • Regular Health Checks:
    • Monitor vision and hearing, as impairments can increase fall risk.
  • Physical Activity:
    • Engage in exercises to improve balance and strength, as recommended by a healthcare provider.

How We Can Help

At Happy Seniors, we understand the emotional and physical challenges seniors face during times of crisis. Our services are designed to provide comprehensive support and help to cope with the war in Israel:

  • Emotional Support:
    • Regular check-ins and compassionate conversations to ease anxiety and loneliness.
  • Physical Assistance:
    • Trained social worker to visit and provide assistance.
  • Customized Care Plans:
    • Tailored services to meet individual needs, from daily tasks to companionship.

Contact Us:

If you or a loved one needs help, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you during these challenging times.

By staying informed and utilizing available resources, seniors and their families can better navigate the current situation, ensuring safety, well-being, and peace of mind. Remember, you are not alone—help is just a phone call away.

Navigating Subsidies and Assistance for Medical Accessories in Israel: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating Subsidies and Assistance for Medical Accessories in Israel: A Comprehensive Guide

Sep 11, 2024

Many people in Israel are unaware of the full range of benefits and subsidies they are entitled to when it comes to Medical Accessories in Israel and assistive products. As a result, individuals often leave significant amounts of money and benefits “on the table” or pay out of pocket for products that could have been covered by government programs or insurance.

A 2019 study by the Taub Center for Social Policy Studies in Israel found that nearly 30% of eligible individuals do not fully utilize their healthcare benefits due to lack of awareness or difficulty navigating the system. Furthermore, a 2020 report by the Israeli Ministry of Health estimated that up to 40% of seniors and disabled individuals may be missing out on some form of assistance they’re entitled to, potentially leaving thousands of shekels unclaimed.

This comprehensive guide aims to help senior citizens, people with disabilities, soldiers, and war victims understand and access the resources available to them, potentially saving thousands of shekels annually and improving their quality of life.

Most Sought-After Medical Accessories in Israel

The following medical Accessories in Israel are commonly subsidized for seniors, disabled individuals, and veterans in Israel:

  • Hearing aids: Critical for individuals with hearing loss.
  • Mobility devices: Wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, and crutches.
  • Prosthetics and orthotics: Prosthetic limbs and orthopedic braces.
  • Vision aids: Magnifiers and specialized glasses.
  • Communication devices: Tools for speech-impaired individuals.
  • Rehabilitation equipment: Electric beds, lifts, and pressure-relief mattresses.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Groups:

The following groups are typically eligible for subsidized Medical Accessories in Israel:

  • Senior citizens (usually 65+): Individuals who have reached retirement age and may require additional medical support. Those registered with the National Insurance Institute (Bituach Leumi) are often eligible for assistance with products like hearing aids, wheelchairs, and other assistive devices
  • Individuals with recognized permanent disabilities: Those with long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments that affect their daily activities. Eligibility is typically verified by medical documentation and government certifications from the Ministry of Health or National Insurance.
  • Soldiers and veterans (injured during service): Current and former military personnel who sustained injuries while serving in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). They are often eligible for full assistance, including advanced rehabilitation equipment.
  • Victims of war and terror attacks: Civilians who have been injured or affected by acts of war or terrorism may receive special aid through various government programs.

Who is Not Eligible (covered under other programs) to Medical Accessories in Israel:

While many groups receive comprehensive coverage, certain individuals are covered by alternative programs. These include:

  • Work accident victims: Those injured at work are typically covered under work accident insurance, and should apply for benefits via Bituach Leumi’s work injury program (work injury benefits).
  • Disabled IDF veterans: Veterans with service-related disabilities are covered by the Ministry of Defense’s Rehabilitation Division (Rehabilitation Division).
  • Holocaust survivors: Individuals receiving compensation through the Ministry of Finance for Holocaust-related disabilities, including allowances for camp or ghetto survivors, may not be eligible for additional subsidies under other programs.

Each of these specialized groups has access to specific programs that provide benefits tailored to their circumstances.

Organizations Providing Subsidies and Funding Assistance

The amount of funding available for assistive products varies depending on the program and individual eligibility. Below are state-mandated health services, non-profits, and government agencies that provide subsidies for Medical Accessories in Israel.

State-Mandated Health Funds (HMOs):

Supplementary health insurance plans within Israel’s health funds (Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, Leumit) often reimburse a large portion of costs, with up to 75% coverage for devices like hearing aids and mobility aids, though caps apply to the reimbursement amounts.

  1. Clalit Health Services (website)
    • Example: For hearing aids, a referral from a Clalit doctor is needed. Reimbursement of up to 75% of the cost (max NIS 1,100 per year) can be applied for after purchasing from an approved list.
  2. Maccabi Healthcare Services (website)
    • Example: Mobility aids like crutches or walkers can be partially subsidized after providing documentation from a specialist.
  3. Meuhedet Health Services (website)
    • Example: Members can apply for prosthetic limbs with 80% coverage, depending on their health plan tier.
  4. Leumit Health Services (website)
    • Example: Vision aids such as specialized glasses are covered for seniors and those with visual impairments.

Non-Profit Organizations:

  1. Yad Sarah (website) – Provides free or low-cost equipment loans (e.g., wheelchairs, oxygen machines). Simple application through any of their 100 branches.
  2. Milbat (website) – Specializes in technological solutions for disabled individuals. Offers customization based on individual needs after consultation.
  3. Ezer Mizion (website) – Provides medical equipment, specifically for low-income families. Application is done through social workers and requires medical records.
  4. Ezra Lemarpeh (website) – Offers rehabilitation equipment and loans. Applications are evaluated based on medical necessity.
  5. Ilan – Israel Foundation for Handicapped Children (website) – Assists children and young adults with physical disabilities in obtaining accessories like mobility devices.

Government Agencies:

  1. Ministry of Health (website) – Offers up to 75-90% funding for necessary devices like mobility aids, prosthetics, and specialized equipment. The funding is determined by the type of product and the individual’s financial and medical status.
  2. National Insurance Institute (Bituach Leumi) (website) – For home-based care and medical equipment, subsidies can range from partial to full coverage depending on the type of equipment and financial status of the applicant. For instance, those receiving a Gmila B’Kesef (cash benefit) may apply their benefit towards purchasing assistive products.
  3. Ministry of Defense (website) – Covers 100% of rehabilitation equipment costs for soldiers and veterans. Requires medical evaluation through the Rehabilitation Division.

Application Processes: Specific Examples

Clalit Health Services (Hearing Aids):

  1. Obtain a referral from a Clalit doctor.
  2. Purchase the hearing aid from a pre-approved supplier.
  3. Submit the original invoice and doctor’s referral for reimbursement.
  4. Receive up to 75% reimbursement, capped at NIS 1,100 annually.

Ministry of Health (Mobility Devices):

  1. Get a specialist’s recommendation.
  2. Submit documents through your local health office.
  3. Choose a supplier from an approved list.
  4. The equipment will be inspected after delivery to ensure it meets your needs.

Yad Sarah (Wheelchairs):

  1. Visit a Yad Sarah branch with ID and medical documentation.
  2. Loan a wheelchair for a limited period, with the option to extend.

Funding Assistance

  • Bituach Leumi offers Gmila B’Kesef (Cash Benefit) to cover home-based care and Medical Accessories in Israel. The amount varies based on the level of assistance required, ranging from approximately 1,000 to 5,000 NIS per month for severe cases.
  • Ministry of Health provides up to 75-90% coverage for necessary devices like mobility aids, prosthetics, and specialized equipment. For those with financial difficulties, coverage can be up to 90%. For example, they may cover up to 4,000 NIS for a standard wheelchair or up to 20,000 NIS for a high-end electric wheelchair, depending on the individual’s needs and financial situation.
  • Private Insurance may help reduce co-payment costs for certain accessories. Coverage can range from 50% to 80% of the cost, depending on the policy and the specific accessory.

The exact amount of funding varies greatly depending on the individual’s circumstances, the specific accessory needed, and the organization providing the assistance. It’s crucial to check with each relevant organization for the most up-to-date information on funding amounts.

Role of Insurance

In Israel, supplementary health insurance through your HMO can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for Medical Accessories in Israel. Here’s how to maximize your insurance benefits:

  1. Review your policy: Carefully read your supplementary insurance policy to understand what’s covered and to what extent.
  2. Pre-approval: Many insurers require pre-approval for coverage of Medical Accessories in Israel. Contact your insurance provider before making a purchase to ensure you follow the correct procedures.
  3. Network providers: Some insurers have agreements with specific suppliers. Using these network providers can often result in higher coverage or lower co-payments.
  4. Combine benefits: In some cases, you can combine benefits from your HMO’s supplementary insurance with government subsidies to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses.
  5. Annual limits: Be aware of any annual limits on coverage for Medical Accessories in Israel. Plan your purchases accordingly to maximize your benefits.
  6. Appeals process: If a claim is denied, don’t hesitate to appeal the decision. Provide additional medical documentation to support your need for the accessory.
  7. Waiting periods: Some plans may require a waiting period before benefits can be utilized. Be sure to understand these restrictions when planning your purchases.

Many insurers offer extended coverage for high-cost items like electric beds, hearing aids, and customized prosthetics. For example, some policies may cover up to 80% of the cost of hearing aids every three years, or provide allowances of 10,000-20,000 NIS for major mobility devices.

Some private insurance plans go beyond what state-provided supplementary insurance offers, covering advanced assistive technologies like motorized wheelchairs or specialized communication devices for people with disabilities.

Remember, insurance policies can be complex. Don’t hesitate to ask your insurance provider for clarification or seek assistance from patient advocacy organizations.

Summary Table of Key Organizations

Organization Pros Cons Application Process Summary
Clalit Health Extensive coverage; easy application Co-payment required for most accessories Doctor referral → Purchase → Reimbursement request
Maccabi Health Competitive rates; good customer service Limited to HMO network; some co-payments Specialist referral → Submit documents for subsidy
Yad Sarah Free/low-cost equipment loans; large network Equipment must be returned after use Visit branch with medical documents → Loan for limited time
Ezra Lemarpeh Good range of rehabilitation equipment Resources may be limited for some items Contact directly with medical documentation
Milbat Customized technological solutions Consultation required; can take time Apply online → Assessment → Customization and delivery
Ministry of Health Wide range of devices covered Process can be bureaucratic; long approval times Specialist recommendation → Local health office → Approval

 

Conclusion

Navigating the system of subsidies and assistance for medical accessories in Israel can be complex and time-consuming. Unfortunately, this complexity often results in many eligible individuals not fully utilizing their benefits. Studies show that this lack of awareness leads to unnecessary financial strain for many families, and better knowledge of available benefits could save them thousands of shekels annually.

This underutilization can have significant impacts on quality of life. For instance, a person who needs a high-quality hearing aid but is unaware of available subsidies might opt for a lower-quality device or go without, potentially affecting their social interactions and overall well-being.

At Happy Seniors, we understand these challenges and are committed to helping you optimize your benefits. Our team of experts can assist you in:

  1. Determining your eligibility for various subsidies and assistance programs
  2. Navigating the application processes for different organizations
  3. Appealing denied claims or rejected applications
  4. Maximizing your insurance benefits
  5. Finding the most cost-effective solutions for your Medical Accessories in Israel needs

Happy Seniors provides a comprehensive range of services to support every step of your journey. These services include:

  • Assistance in finding qualified nursing caregivers
  • Managing medical monitoring and personal care
  • Addressing daily challenges
  • Offering cutting-edge technological solutions that keep the elderly connected with their families and engaged with their communities

Our goal is to help seniors age in a familiar, comfortable environment. By combining personalized care with advanced technology, Happy Seniors ensures that seniors receive the support they need to live comfortably and independently, greatly improving their overall well-being.

Remember, these subsidies and assistance programs exist to improve your quality of life. Don’t leave your benefits unclaimed. Whether through state health funds, non-profits like Yad Sarah, or government programs, there are numerous options to help seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans access necessary equipment.

Always check current policies and procedures to ensure you receive the full benefits available to you. And if you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Happy Seniors. We’re here to ensure you get the support you deserve, simplifying the process and helping you save both time and money.

Contact Happy Seniors today and let us assist you in navigating the complex world of Medical Accessories in Israel subsidies and benefits in Israel!

The Challenge of Optimal Aging in Israel: An In-Depth Look at the Demographic and Social Future

The Challenge of Optimal Aging in Israel: An In-Depth Look at the Demographic and Social Future

Jul 21, 2024

Israel, like many countries worldwide, faces a significant challenge: the aging of its population. Those challenge of optimal aging in Israel, are not just a demographic issue, but also a social, economic, and health challenge of the highest order. In 2021, the Israeli government made an important decision (Government Decision 127) outlining the way to address this challenge, with an emphasis on optimal aging. This article will review the current situation, the challenges we face, and the strategies Israel is adopting to ensure a better future for its elderly citizens.

Current Situation

Demographic Overview According to current data, the elderly population in the world currently constitutes about 10% of the total world population. However, projections indicate that by 2050, the proportion of those aged 65 and over will rise to about 17% of the world’s population. In Israel, the picture is even more dramatic: within 50 years, the elderly population is expected to grow from about one million to about three million.

Characteristics of Optimal Aging in Israel

Studies show that about 80% of the elderly in Israel function at a high level, while 17% are in significant functional decline. Another interesting statistic is that 98% of the elderly live in the community, and only 2% in institutions.

The Health and Functioning Challenge

One of the central challenges in population aging is maintaining health and function. While life expectancy in Israel is among the highest in the world, the gap between life expectancy and healthy life years is growing.

Basic Assumptions for Addressing the Aging Challenge

To address the aging challenge, Israel has adopted several basic assumptions, including a holistic view, shared responsibility between the individual and the state, a common language, and an emphasis on prevention.

National Metrics Map for Optimal Aging

One of the central tools developed to deal with the aging challenge is the National Metrics Map for Optimal Aging. This map includes metrics in various areas such as quality of life and loneliness, healthy life years, functioning, economic resilience, health management, healthy lifestyle, active lifestyle, and digital literacy.

Government Decision 127

A Significant Step Forward In 2021, the Israeli government adopted Decision 127, which marks a significant milestone in dealing with the aging challenge. The decision includes several key components, including adopting the National Metrics Map for Optimal Aging and publishing a national report on the state of optimal aging in Israel every two years.

Strategies for Dealing with the Aging Challenge

Based on the data and insights that emerge from the metrics map and the national report, Israel is developing several central strategies to deal with the aging challenge. These include focusing on prevention, promoting a healthy lifestyle, strengthening social connections, economic preparation for old age, integrating technology, adapting the health system, and age-friendly urban planning.

The Budgetary Challenge

One of the significant challenges in dealing with population aging is the budgetary challenge. However, studies show that investing in prevention and early intervention programs can save many resources in the long run.

Inter-sectoral Collaboration

Dealing with the aging challenge requires cooperation between different sectors of society, including government ministries, local authorities, civil society organizations, the business sector, and academia.

Unique Challenges in Israel

While the aging challenge is global, Israel faces several unique challenges, including cultural diversity, geographical gaps, immigration, and security issues.

Innovation and Technology

Israel, known as the “Start-up Nation,” is also leveraging its technological capabilities in the field of aging. Innovative technological developments include home monitoring systems, adapted social platforms, technologies for cognitive improvement, and assistive robotics.

Preparing for the Future

One of the central issues in the concept of optimal aging is preparing for the future. This includes financial planning, career planning, healthy lifestyle, and housing planning.

Summary and Future Outlook

The challenge of optimal aging in Israel is complex and multidimensional. It requires rethinking the concept of old age, the place of the elderly in society, and the shared responsibility of the individual and society in ensuring a good quality of life in old age. The success in dealing with this challenge will be measured not only in numbers and statistics but also – and perhaps mainly – in the quality of life of the elderly in Israel, their integration into society, and their sense of value and meaning.

Happy Seniors Services

Happy Seniors offers a wide range of services to help elderly people living at home and their families. The services include assistance in finding suitable nursing caregivers, managing medical monitoring and personal care, and supporting daily challenges. The company also offers technological solutions that allow the elderly to stay connected with their families and enjoy community support, all with the goal of improving their quality of life and allowing them to age in a familiar and comfortable environment. Happy Seniors helps the elderly enjoy maximum support and advanced technology, thereby significantly improving their quality of life.

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