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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Example: Vision aids such as specialized glasses are covered for seniors and those with visual impairments.
Non-Profit Organizations:
Yad Sarah (website) – Provides free or low-cost equipment loans (e.g., wheelchairs, oxygen machines). Simple application through any of their 100 branches.
Milbat (website) – Specializes in technological solutions for disabled individuals. Offers customization based on individual needs after consultation.
Ezer Mizion (website) – Provides medical equipment, specifically for low-income families. Application is done through social workers and requires medical records.
Ezra Lemarpeh (website) – Offers rehabilitation equipment and loans. Applications are evaluated based on medical necessity.
Ilan – Israel Foundation for Handicapped Children (website) – Assists children and young adults with physical disabilities in obtaining accessories like mobility devices.
Government Agencies:
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.
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.
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):
Obtain a referral from a Clalit doctor.
Purchase the hearing aid from a pre-approved supplier.
Submit the original invoice and doctor’s referral for reimbursement.
Receive up to 75% reimbursement, capped at NIS 1,100 annually.
Ministry of Health (Mobility Devices):
Get a specialist’s recommendation.
Submit documents through your local health office.
Choose a supplier from an approved list.
The equipment will be inspected after delivery to ensure it meets your needs.
Yad Sarah (Wheelchairs):
Visit a Yad Sarah branch with ID and medical documentation.
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:
Review your policy: Carefully read your supplementary insurance policy to understand what’s covered and to what extent.
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.
Network providers: Some insurers have agreements with specific suppliers. Using these network providers can often result in higher coverage or lower co-payments.
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.
Annual limits: Be aware of any annual limits on coverage for Medical Accessories in Israel. Plan your purchases accordingly to maximize your benefits.
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.
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:
Determining your eligibility for various subsidies and assistance programs
Navigating the application processes for different organizations
Appealing denied claims or rejected applications
Maximizing your insurance benefits
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!
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.
Galit, a nurse who works full-time at a geriatric center. She remembers very well the time when she had to communicate for the first time with a dementia patient from the department where she worked. She was a young nurse at the time and had just finished her bachelor’s degree in nursing. The patient she had to communicate with for the first time was called Shoshana. A 70-year-old woman, who was diagnosed in the early stages of the disease, about two years ago. After working in the geriatric department for several months, one thing was very clear to her: there are many caregivers who are still not sufficiently aware of how to properly communicate with dementia patients.
A nurse makes eye contact with an elderly woman suffering from dementia – illustration picture.
Tips for effective communication with dementia patients-
Remove all the environmental factors that may hinder you from communicating with the person with dementia such as: an open television, a beeping cell phone, a radio, and more.
Speak slowly and clearly, use simple words.
Ask him closed questions and make sure that all the questions you ask can be answered yes or no. Instead of asking, what would you like to have for lunch? Ask, would you like to eat a sandwich with cheese?
Speak clearly and use the names of the people and things you are talking about. Instead of using body words such as: she, he, they – did you like it? Ask did you like the cake?
Try to have short conversations with him. People with dementia may lose the sequence of the conversation, if you have long conversations with them.
Give the dementia patient time to respond to your questions. Try to avoid frustration, if the time you have to wait for an answer is longer than expected.
More tips for effective communication with dementia patients –
Talk to the dementia patient at eye level. Address him by his first name, to make sure you have his full attention.
Try to have one-on-one conversations with him. If you cannot avoid talking in a group, try to make sure that you talk to one person at a time.
Try to avoid finishing the sentence for the dementia patient. If he insists on finding the right word, think about the topic of the conversation and ask a question that should help and stimulate what he wanted to say. If the dementia patient tells you – I want… I want… ask a question such as – do you want to go for a walk?
During the conversation, never say to the dementia patient, “I told you so before.” It is important to remember that if the person starts repeating the things he said before, and asks you repeated questions. It is possible that, he simply forgot that he asked the same question before.
Try not to argue with the dementia patient, as this will make them feel anxious. It is much more effective to accept what he says as the truth and continue the conversation.
If the dementia patient has behavioral disturbances, help them gain control. Think of tasks or activities he can do that can help him feel appreciated. For example, daily activities that he used to do and enjoy. Activities he can do at home such as: folding clothes, or cutting vegetables before dinner.
An elderly woman tries to remember – photo illustration.
Latest tips for proper communication with dementia patients-
Give the person with dementia clear and helpful instructions. When his cognitive (mental) state continues to deteriorate, control must be maintained with him through simple and effective communication. If you ask him directly – “Can you make me a cup of coffee please?” The request can cause him frustration. On the other hand, if you offer him to make coffee together with you and guide him through simple instructions. This way, you can give him back his sense of control. Instead: “Can you make me a cup of coffee please?” “Please fill the kettle with water”, “Boil the water”, “Take the coffee beans out of the cupboard” etc.
I will be flexible to their world! Many people who live with dementia lose track of time. If the dementia patient is not ready to talk to you at that moment, try to understand the reason for this. It’s possible that he just woke up, or he was up all night, or he’s just not in the mood to talk, or he wants to rest and watch TV. It is important to remember that, if you do not receive any response from the dementia patient, you must continue to talk with him patiently and respectfully. All this, in order to avoid frustration and a feeling of lack of appreciation.
It is very useful to find sources of mental support! When dementia worsens, it is important to have someone to talk to. You have to take breaks and gather strength for the rest of the way.
Know when to walk away! If the dementia patient becomes irritable or threatening, take a deep breath and walk away. Remember that living with a dementia patient is not easy – you can always come back and try to deal with it later.
In conclusion-
You must remember that the dementia patient is not always responsible for his actions. It is the terrible disease that causes his behavior and the gradual deterioration of his brain functions. I really hope that one day there will be a cure for this disease. But, now you must learn how to deal with its consequences. The best way is to focus on the positive things you achieve with the person dealing with dementia. Try to spend every day with him as much as possible.
Written by Irit Rabinowitz – attorney with a master’s degree in the field of health and rehabilitation – with extensive experience with mentally ill and nursing patients.
I started my work in nursing homes, in 2008. First in small nursing homes, and then I moved to work in a relatively large nursing home in the northern region. I really enjoyed working in community, individual and group work with the tenants and also, I enjoyed helping the families of the elderly, both in emotional support and in exercising their rights in front of the various offices.
What did I enjoy least about my work in nursing homes?
From the gray exceptional events, from the fact that I could not always work according to the ethics rules of the profession, because I was subordinate to management that preferred to hide (not all managements).
But, of course, I didn’t give up and where it was necessary to report, I insisted on reporting even if it resulted in criticism towards me or even dismissal.
Lack of manpower in the wards and the fact that sometimes as a result, the work of the treating staff led to those unusual events. The reluctance of the care teams to receive training and professionalize, just because they had to stay another hour at their own expense.
All this, made me gradually lose my desire to continue working in nursing homes.
In this article, I’m going to scan the state of nursing homes in Israel, with an emphasis on long-term nursing homes. Of course, not all nursing homes in Israel are in the same situation, some are of better quality and there are less, and I am going to give general information about what is happening in the nursing homes in Israel both from the literature and from my personal experience.
The shortage of nursing personnel in nursing homes –
A woman takes care of an elderly woman
It is no secret that the shortage of personnel in nursing homes and hospitals is high. As a result, the care given to the elderly staying in nursing homes is sometimes deficient. As proof of this, a quote from an article in Globes-
In the administrative petition, it was claimed by the Association of Nursing Homes in Israel that the reduction in the number of foreign workers in Israel, through the Population and Immigration Authority, resulted in a great shortage of nursing care workers for tens of thousands of elderly people who need it. According to the petitioner union, the construction industry did not suffer from the lack of foreign workers, because it was important for the state to solve the housing crisis in Israel, but tens of thousands of the state’s nursing and mentally exhausted elders were abandoned by it.
Lawyers Bombach and Ronen add and write, on behalf of the nursing homes, that
The population in the world, and in Israel in particular, is living longer and longer. But at the same time, the attention of the decision makers in Israel was not drawn to this, and the emphasis was not placed on finding a systemic-national solution for the treatment of the aging population.
The phenomenon of abuse in nursing homes-
The phenomenon of abuse of residents Among the staff members, it was found that the auxiliary forces are the group of caregivers who are at high risk of abuse of residents, as a result of the abrasive nature of their work (Shannan-Altman and Cohen, 2009).
These caregivers are professional support workers, who are required to exercise basic skills in care and their work involves physical care of the elderly, assistance in fulfilling their mental and social needs and maintaining their quality of life.
In studies carried out in the United States and Israel, it was found that the nursing profession in Israel and the United States is characterized by low status, little income, poor employment conditions, lack of promotion opportunities and low job security.
What causes therapists to become frustrated and how can this be overcome?
All that was said above, causes people involved in this profession a lot of frustration and confusion. They come to work reluctantly and have nothing to make them want to continue working.
Institutions, which have learned to understand this, organize fun days for those therapists, rewarding them with bonuses for good work. It will also not hurt to pay a salary that is above the minimum wage. Also, organizations that will give more paid training to those caregivers, will cause more responsiveness on the part of the caregivers to participate in that training.
Another testimony that causes the phenomenon of abuse in nursing homes was given by Dr. Tova Band Winterstein, from the Gerontology Department at the University of Haifa.
In the research I have conducted over the past 16 years, I have witnessed the high risk of the elderly population for abusive and neglectful behavior.” According to her, this is a population that depends on the staff members and is subject to the procedures and routine of life at the institution. This dependence, combined with stereotypical age attitudes that see the elderly as a burden, transparent, and irrelevant, allow in certain situations the existence of abuse and neglect.” She says and adds that Many times the atmosphere and the demanding organizational climate cause a great burnout of the staff, a great deal of stress and therapeutic burden that can cause lack of compassion.
Who are the factors enforcing this problem and how?
Another problem related to the phenomenon of abuse in the nursing homes comes not only from the nursing homes and caregivers, but also from the police and supervisory authorities. The police encourage family members to file complaints on this issue, in many cases it is difficult to convict due to a lack of evidence. In addition to that, the physical condition of the nursing elderly does not allow them to testify, or they are afraid to testify due to their proximity and dependence on caregivers.
Therefore, many times even the professional workers who come to talk with them, do not always receive information on this subject from the elderly. In addition to reporting to the police, it is also possible to report to the regional welfare officer, especially when it comes to grayer cases, where it is not possible to collect clear evidence from the elderly or his environment regarding any suspicion of abuse. Even after reporting to the relief officials, the cases are not always handled optimally, this is due to the heavy burden on the relief officials and the social workers handling this issue.
According to the data of the Ministry of Welfare in Israel, each social worker dealing in this field handles hundreds of cases. One of the important mechanisms to deal with this phenomenon is through a relief official in the elder service. Due to the load, the treatment is lacking and there is insufficient monitoring of the cases of abuse reported to the welfare officer.
It should be noted that there is a procedure that the follow-up will be on the part of the abuse committee, which is obliged to take place once every three months by the members of the committee for the prevention of abuse, which consists of the multi-professional team of the institution. Of course, it is mandatory that a lawyer, a doctor and a nurse, the other professional employees participate, depending on the reported case.
What is the process of hiring caregivers for the nursing home?
In addition to this, there is a very problematic phenomenon in the recruitment of caregivers to nursing homes. Due to the lack of auxiliary staff, there is no regulated and professional selection process for accepting people who wish to work as caregivers in the nursing homes. As a result, anyone interested in being accepted to work as a therapist enters the job, without a thorough examination of their personality and experience. In addition, many therapists who were negligent in their duties in a certain institution, were fired and moved to work in another institution.
They were hired due to the lack of caregivers. It should be noted that if it is a large institution – with several departments – if the caregiver is suspected of certain negligence, he will not be fired immediately, the first few times, he will be transferred to another department in the same nursing home. This is in order to preserve it, because again the problem that repeats itself in this case too: there are not enough experienced therapists who want to work in a nursing home.
Supervision of the Ministry of Health or Welfare –
The roles of the Ministry of Health and Welfare-
The Ministries of Health and Welfare, their role is to issue procedures to the institutions under their supervision and supervise them in the various controls. There are private nursing homes that are not supervised by these ministries and the clients pay for them privately and there are nursing homes that are under the supervision of these ministries and most of the clients who come to them receive funding through them.
The Ministry of Health supervises institutions for nursing and debilitated people and the Ministry of Welfare supervises institutions for the independent and debilitated. If you are interested in getting to know the different functional conditions and the funding process for them, you are invited to enter the article on functional conditions in the third age.
Reporting Obligation-
When there is any suspicion of any negligence or abuse, it is mandatory to report to the Ministry of Health or Welfare depending on the nursing home where the elderly person is staying.
The Ministry of Health or Welfare, their role is to contact the responsible attorney and the abuse committee at the nursing home and find out about the case.
Also, to follow up on the case and how it is handled. To tell the truth, this follow-up is not always done, but the Ministry of Health does check in controls whether the members of the abuse committee, which is also their role, do follow up on the reported cases of abuse.
The review of the Ministry of Health-
In addition to this, there is an audit by the ABA Nursing Homes Association on the conduct of the Ministry of Health in the nursing homes:
The Ministry of Health is the one that pays for most nursing beds Says Roni Ozari, chairman of the ABA (Association of Nursing Homes and Sheltered Housing in Israel), which represents over 200 public (non-profit) and private nursing homes and shelters where about 25,000 residents live. “But in fact he pays 30% of the actual expenses of the nursing homes. He wants to save money at the expense of nursing homes.
A situation has arisen where those who are not good survive and exist. It should be understood that this is not substandard.
The standards are correct, but there is no manpower to fulfill them. I expect the Ministry of Health to lift the glove and do two things immediately: He will approve another 2,000 foreign workers out of the 5,000 required for the nursing industry as a start and then he will establish a forum led by an economist, which will determine the rate for the day of hospitalization, so that we will not reach what we have reached so far. That way the criminals also knew they had something to lose.
Background data from the Taub Center for the Study of Social Policy in Israel on the subject of nursing care indicate that the system for long-term geriatric hospitalization has approximately 21,000 beds in 333 geriatric institutions.
About 70% of the beds are occupied by hospitalized patients financed by the Ministry of Health according to law. The rest of the beds are financed by the hospitalized patients and their families privately.
About two-thirds of the nursing homes are privately owned and the rest are publicly owned, but they all operate according to the professional guidelines of the Ministry of Health and serve as the operational arm of the Ministry of Health, that is, It is the state that is obligated to give the elderly the good, adequate and proper nursing care in the last chapter of their lives. It is she who determines the mandatory therapeutic guidelines through the Geriatrics Division of the Ministry of Health, which dictates the guidelines and supervises their implementation, and she is the one who bears the brunt of the ongoing failure.
In conclusion-
According to the data of the Population and Immigration Authority, in many developed countries there is a very serious shortage of local personnel in the nursing sector.
This is mainly due to the rapid pace of the aging of the population and a change in the family structure, which resulted in a considerable reduction in the informal workforce.
According to an analysis of demographic, economic and social trends, this shortage will get worse in the coming decades. As a result, policy makers must intervene in market forces and look for creative solutions in order to stabilize the level of demand and supply of personnel in the nursing field. Also, it is very important that the police treat the reported cases more seriously and not close almost every case reported to them by the nursing home due to lack of evidence.
Standards must also be increased among public service workers in the field of aging: more relief clerks, because their role is important and decisive in locating and treating cases of abuse in nursing homes. Paid therapist training, more bonuses, fun days, discounts and fair treatment of the institution’s management towards the therapists. Strict selection of employees.
And in addition, changing the way social workers are paid in order to avoid a conflict of interest: The social workers working in nursing homes will receive their salary from the Ministry of Health and not from the managers of the nursing homes. That way, they would be less afraid to speak up for fear of being fired. But, for now it’s just a dream
When our loved ones age and gradually turn from people who need help to people who need help, many questions arise about their future. But, the question that concerns the elderly and their families the most is, what are the housing options for the elderly? What is the most optimal residential option for them.
Answers to these questions can vary from family to family. So before you go looking for a housing solution for the elderly, it is important to consider three things:
The person’s age and functional status?
Is everyone in the family, especially the elderly themselves, still debating about suitable housing or have they formed an opinion on the matter?
Have you discussed with your loved ones all the housing options available to them?
There is a variety of housing options for the elderly, depending of course on their functional and cognitive condition.
There are 8 housing solutions for the elderly:
The first option of housing for the elderly is – sheltered housing for independent seniors:
Designed for seniors who can manage their daily lives, and can take care of themselves. In this case, assisted living for independent seniors may be the best option for them.
People who fit this arrangement can do their chores without help and still enjoy morning walks. Assisted living is a great option for seniors looking for a single apartment designed especially for them.
In sheltered housing for independents, there is a separate apartment for each tenant who comes to live there. Also, every sheltered housing has a variety of services provided to the elderly who live there. Services such as: transportation, nurse, social worker, various classes, lectures.
Sheltered housing for the independent, as said, is suitable when both spouses are independent. But, what happens when one of the spouses dies or becomes ill? So the responsibility for the treatment passes to the children of the sick parent, when in many cases their responsibility for him, becomes a physical and emotional burden for them. The decision on which housing solution to choose should be for the benefit of the elderly only.
A second option of housing for the elderly – living with the elderly family:
Imagine the following scenario, your mother-in-law, moves in with your family. The change is inevitable and you made room for her in the apartment. However, after a few months, problems start to emerge. Tension and conflicts suddenly arise and the marital relationship between you and your partner begins to deteriorate.
You miss the feeling of privacy and calm that existed in your home before. To be honest, your mother-in-law is gradually getting older, maybe it’s time to consider a new housing option for her?
A third option of housing for the elderly – care by a nanny according to the Nursing Law:
As stated before, the possibility of living depends on the health of the elderly and their therapeutic needs. In the long run, the years take their toll and your mother-in-law’s health deteriorates and it is difficult for her to live alone.
Daily activities such as preparing meals as well as monitoring the swallowing of pills become more complex activities for her.
There is no fear, because there is a way to still maintain most of her independence, with only one small addition: the help of an external caregiver. An external caregiver can be obtained through a nursing company or can be obtained independently. Today, the National Insurance allows you to get paid hours to get the caregiver you are interested in, independent of a nursing company, this can have advantages and disadvantages. To get more information about this, read the article about the new nursing reform.
A caregiver who comes to the elderly’s home according to the nursing hours given to the elderly, provides him with the help he needs, she can help him with household chores such as: cleaning, cooking and laundry, shopping, escorting to tests and of course the daily activities that the elderly need help with.
An Israeli carer can help a maximum of 28 hours a week and a foreign worker lives with the elderly, when he is completely dependent on the help of others.
The elderly living in the community can also receive nursing hours for a day center if they are interested. These hours are included in the total number of nursing hours due to him. As part of the day center, the elderly receive lunch and various social activities such as: lectures, creative workshops, performances, etc. The centers, open 6-5 days a week from morning until noon, are operated through local associations for the elderly, under the supervision of the service for the elderly at the Ministry of Welfare.
Services at the day center include:
Transportation from home to the center and back, in a vehicle adapted to the function of the elderly, including escort and assistance in getting on and off the vehicle.
Breakfast and lunch under the supervision of a nutritionist.
Bathing, shaving assistance, manicure, pedicure and laundry service (for an additional fee)
Social and occupational activity – classes, lectures, employment and crafts, movies, games, trips and parties as well as unique programs (computers, gardening, pets)
Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, physical activity, nurse examination, preventive care, social care and geriatric counseling for the elderly and their families
Activity to promote a healthy lifestyle (such as workshops on nutrition).
A fourth option of housing for the elderly – nursing homes:
A nursing home offers a form of housing that provides comprehensive care and service for all areas of life, according to the functional status of the elderly.
Each nursing home has a medical team, a medical and nursing assistant, a social worker and an administrative team whose job it is to take care of the elderly’s quality of life in the best possible way.
There are four departments that correspond to the four functional states: the self-employed department, the debilitated department, the nursing department and the debilitated department. The way the wards are combined, the style of the place and the cost vary between nursing homes and places can be found according to the financial capacity of the resident and his family members.
Departments for independents-
This housing solution is suitable for independent people, who need a framework that provides security and company.
Wards for frail people-
A framework that provides people who need a little help in their daily activities. To understand this functional condition, go and read the article on functional conditions in the third age.
Departments for the independent and frail
which are under the supervision of the Ministry of Welfare, it is possible to receive funding from the Ministry of Welfare for them. You must go to the social worker at the welfare office in order to receive this funding.
Wards for nursing and mentally ill elderly –
They are supervised by the Ministry of Health and you can get a code from the Ministry of Health, in order to receive funding for them. You must go to the nearest health office to your area of residence and receive advice and guidance on the process. Nursing people need help with most or all of the daily functions and the mentally ill are the elderly who have dementia or have had a stroke and their cognitive functions have been impaired.
Besides the medical services, the residents of the nursing home enjoy many social activities and circles. There are nursing homes that make sure to integrate the residents into the general community, through joint classes, voluntary activities and more.
A fifth option of housing for the elderly – vacation house:
A nursing home is an institutional setting for senior citizens who need care and supervision after discharge from a hospital and for those who cannot live in their own home for family or other reasons. The vacation stay is for a short period and includes accommodation, meals, personal care, health services, social service and social activity.
There are designated holiday homes for nursing senior citizens and ultra-Orthodox senior citizens.
To locate vacation homes for senior citizens according to different localities throughout the country, see the service database of Joint Israel-Eshel (you must select the type of service – “Vacation, RESPITE”).
Those who have reached retirement age, are self-employed, are defined as exhausted and answer one of the following:
He is after being hospitalized and needs help with day-to-day activities in a protected setting.
His family, or the person taking care of him needs a break.
Temporarily left homeless due to an emergency (such as a fire or flood).
Suffers from abuse and needs short-term protection, until a treatment plan is built for him.
The process of exercising the right: the senior citizen or his family members will apply to take him on vacation to the social services department next to their area of residence – to locate the nearest department.
The attending attorney will determine the eligibility, fill out a “Decision on Placement” form and have the applicants sign an undertaking that the arrangement is temporary and at the end of it the senior citizen will return to live in the community. It should be noted that the vacation is for a period of 15 days. It is necessary that it be approved on- by the Department of Social Services. In special cases, a vacation between 16 and 60 days will be approved by the district supervisor of the senior citizen service. In addition, in cases where the senior citizen cannot be returned to his home, and until an alternative framework is found for him, a vacation between 31 and – 36 days subject to the approval of the senior citizen service manager or his deputy. It should be noted that the senior citizen will be directed to vacation in a framework appropriate to his function and in accordance with his choice.
Sixth housing option – hostels – public sheltered housing –
The Ministry of Construction and Housing manages about 120 housing homes for the elderly, which include approximately 12,000 one-and-a-half or two-room apartments (to locate the housing homes for the elderly on the website of the Ministry of Construction and Housing). 50% of the vacated apartments are intended for immigrants and 50% for veterans and tenants moving from public housing. It should be noted that the housing estates are mostly operated by government companies and partly by private companies.
In addition, the staff of the housing houses includes a house mother, a maintenance person, a social worker, a social coordinator and a caregiver for the elderly. The tenants participate in various social activities, such as: clubs, classes, classes and trips. Also, living in the Golden Age House involves paying a rent that ranges from 8%-10% of the national insurance allowance or any other income of the tenant, apart from the allowance (rent) paid by the German government.
Who is eligible?
Individuals or couples who meet all of the following conditions: are homeless or tenants in a public housing apartment moving out of their apartment. Have reached retirement age and are eligible for an old-age pension upon supplementing income. Independent in their function (not nursing).
In accordance with a temporary order valid until the end of December 2019, the age of eligibility to enter a senior citizen home has been brought forward for those who are eligible for rent assistance: in the homes that appear on this list that have few eligible people waiting to enter them, the minimum entry age has been lowered to 60. In the homes that appear on this list that have no eligible people waiting to enter For them, the minimum entry age was lowered to 55.
An application must be submitted for a housing unit in the Golden Age House:
The tenants of the public housing will submit the request to the branch of the housing company that takes care of their apartment.
Homeless people will submit the application through one of the companies that provide services to rent assistance applicants.
The application must be accompanied by a valid confirmation from the National Insurance Institute of entitlement to an old-age pension upon supplementing income.
After submitting the application, you must go through an adjustment committee:
First, the functional status of the applicant will be examined by a doctor, to make sure that he is not nursing.
If the applicant is found to be independent in his function, he will undergo an admissions interview and suitability check by the admissions committee of the Golden Age House to which he wishes to transfer.
Those whose eligibility has been confirmed may wait until a place becomes available for them in the Golden Age home, a period ranging from several weeks to several years (depending on the locality where the home is located). During the waiting period, it is possible to receive rent assistance.
Seventh housing option – rehabilitation as part of hospitalization for a rehabilitation patient –
Rehabilitation is a therapeutic step in an ongoing healing process, the goal of which is to improve the specific motor and cognitive functions that have been impaired due to illness or injury. Also, increasing the patient’s personal independence so that he can return to leading an active and healthy lifestyle. It should be noted that the responsibility for providing rehabilitation is anchored in the State Health Insurance Law and applies to the health insurance fund that insures the patient according to the second addendum to the law.
The health insurance funds are obliged to inform each patient and his family about his rights to exploit the rehabilitation potential, while referring to the appropriate parties, as well as bring to their attention the existence of assisting parties. The rehabilitation process can be done intensively in a hospital setting or in the community.
A rehabilitation patient who meets the criteria for inpatient rehabilitation will be hospitalized for a period of up to three months. Hospitalization for a longer period is possible, with the approval of a professional committee of the HMO.
Who is eligible?
The criteria set by the Ministry of Health for inpatient rehabilitation for a rehabilitation patient
The family, social and environmental conditions do not allow treatment at home or in the community.
The patient’s medical condition requires long-term medical supervision and nursing care.
The patient suffers from motor, cognitive, emotional, verbal and behavioral impairments, the treatment of which requires professional knowledge available in dedicated rehabilitation settings.
Adequate rehabilitation cannot be given in the community.
Any disabled person (who cannot walk or stand for a certain period of time) will be referred to an inpatient rehabilitation setting, unless he has given his consent to treatment in the community. There is a possibility of that.
Patients after a stroke or patients suffering from other neurological problems will only be referred for rehabilitation if their functional status, as seen in a functional test, has significantly worsened.
The process of exercising the right
The referral to rehabilitation is made in the hospital prior to discharge.
When making a decision regarding the appropriate rehabilitation framework, the patient and his family must be shared and their preferences taken into account.
The decision on providing rehabilitation and its goals will be made by a geriatric specialist or by a rehabilitation specialist from the hospital, and in consultation with the representative of the hospital’s multi-professional team.
The decision regarding the rehabilitation treatment will be given to the health insurance fund, the patient and his family, at least two working days before discharge from the department.
The HMO representative will examine the hospital’s recommendation and provide a quick response (within two working days). A deviation from the hospital’s recommendation requires a detailed and documented reasoning, detailing the alternatives offered to the patient.
A person who lives far from his family and children, can request to move to a rehabilitation department close to their area of residence.
Refusal of the HMO to approve the hospitalization
When the professional body at the hospital has decided that a patient needs continued rehabilitation treatment in hospitalization, and the HMO refuses to accept this recommendation and does not approve the continuation of hospitalization, one must act in one of the following ways:
Apply for a rehabilitative assessment within the inpatient rehabilitative framework.
Seek another opinion from a specialist in geriatrics or rehabilitation, accepted and agreed upon by the health fund.
Any disagreement must be detailed and reasoned.
Important Information-
A pressure sore or tube feeding is not a reason to prevent receiving rehabilitation treatment.
Every decision made regarding the rehabilitation treatment will be reasoned and documented.
Eighth housing option – old people’s homes with complex nursing wards –
Elderly people who are in a complex nursing situation are arranged in complex nursing institutions through the health insurance funds. To learn what the criteria are for a complex nursing patient, go to the article – Functional conditions in the third age.
Institutional arrangement for a patient hospitalized in hospital :
When an elderly person defined as a compound nursing patient is admitted to a hospital and wishes to go to a nursing home, he must contact a social worker in the department where he is hospitalized. The social worker will contact the liaison nurse of the health insurance fund where the old man is a member, and she will ask the geriatrician for permission to arrange for the old man. The geriatrician’s answer at the HMO will be given to the hospital. Upon receipt of the approval, the social worker will inform the elderly in which nursing home he can be admitted, according to the instructions of the health insurance fund. After the payment is settled, the HMO will issue a bond and the elderly person will be able to move to the nursing home.
Institutional arrangement for the patient at home-
An elderly person who is at home and wishes to move to a nursing home, should contact his family doctor. If the doctor defines him as a complex nursing patient, he will forward the request to the geriatrician in charge of arrangements in complex nursing wards. Upon receipt of the doctor’s or someone else’s approval, the elderly will be told in which nursing homes he can be hospitalized, according to the instructions of the health insurance fund. After the payment is settled, the HMO will issue a bond and the elderly person will be able to move to the nursing home.
Payment to the nursing home-
The co-payment for an elderly person in a complex nursing ward is about NIS 116 per day (the co-payment rates are updated from time to time and vary according to the health fund and the type of health insurance of the elderly person).
An elderly person living on an old-age pension (senior citizen’s pension) in addition to supplementing income only, will pay 80% of his income for his arrangement in the nursing home.
Filing an Appeal-
If in the opinion of the elderly he cannot pay the deductible, he must fill out an appeal form.
The form must be accompanied by documents showing his income, his spouse’s income and his children’s income.
The forms must be submitted at the mother clinic of the health fund where he is insured.
If the elderly person is not satisfied with the appeal committee’s decision, he can file an appeal with the member’s rights department of the health fund where he is insured.
In conclusion-
All 8 housing options depend of course on his functional and cognitive condition. Also, how involved the elderly is in the decision, his thoughts, feelings and health.
Finding suitable housing for a person who raised us or we know him since he was young and energetic, is definitely not an easy task mentally.
Make sure that you do listen to the opinions of your loved one and yourself, before you make your final decision.
The elderly person needs love, care and respect in his advanced age. as you have received from him throughout your life. Therefore, make sure when you come to inspect potential housing that there is indeed an appropriate and respectful attitude towards the tenants. Pay attention to the personnel situation in the departments and check their standards in the government ministries, health and welfare. Check the inspection scores the nursing homes received either in satisfaction surveys on the Ministry of Health website or on the Gold Factor website.
If you would like to consult with me about suitable housing for your loved one, you are invited to contact me through the website or by email at irit@happyseniors.care or by mobile – 054-7758564 and I will gladly advise, free of charge.
Likewise, I can also help with the relevant housing entrance status both mentally and in terms of the bureaucratic processes for obtaining financing.
