December Letter from the CEO

Krystin Albert; RN, BSN

Caring through the Holidays

As we approach the holiday season, we’re reminded that this time of year can look different for everyone we serve both physically and emotionally. For some it brings joy, traditions, and family gatherings. For others it can bring mixed emotions when dealing with illness, loss of family or friends, or stress of being full time caregivers.

At Franklin VNA & Hospice we know that caring through the holidays means meeting each person wherever they are during this time. Whether someone is experiencing joy or pain, celebration or change, our role is to be compassionate, committed, and present during this time for our patients and their families.

To our families and patients we serve, thank you for allowing us in your homes and trusting us with your care. To our communities and healthcare allies, thank you for working with us and the support you give. To all of our staff, our volunteers, and board members, thank you for all you do all year round and everything you contribute to this agency. To our patients we lost this year and their families, know you all made a mark on our hearts and we will continue to be here to support you during these difficult times.

We hope everyone has healthy and happy holidays and as we move into the new year, know that we are your VNA and we are here for you. 

Thank you for choosing Franklin VNA and Hospice as your Home Health and Hospice agency and for sharing your experience with our services with others. It is because of you that we are able to continue to remain a small independent hometown agency.

Remember that you have a choice, choose

Franklin VNA and Hospice for your

Home Care and Hospice agency

What's Happening in December

CAPBM's Mobile Food Assistance Program delivers to those who cannot get to a pantry, including homebound elderly individuals in Merrimack and Belknap Counties. Please contact the Mobile Food Pantry at (603) 228-6202 or email MobileFood@capbm.org

Applications for the Community Action Program of Belknap-Merrimack Counties' Fuel Assistance Program opened October 1, offering heating cost support to eligible households throughout the winter. Income-based and at no cost to applicants, the program helps with oil, gas, electric, wood, or pellet heating bills and is paid directly to vendors or landlords. If you live outside of these counties and are in need of fuel assistance, check with your local community action program for more information.

December Education

Germ of the Month

Influenza (Flu) Virus

Kristel Mattice; RN, MSN

The influenza virus, often referred to as the Flu, is a contagious respiratory virus that infects the upper respiratory system (throat, nose, and lungs). This virus is more apt to infect those who are 65 years of age or older, young children, and anyone with chronic health conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart failure, diabetes, or any immunosuppressive disease. Flu A and B are the two most common strains that routinely spread annually during the fall and winter months, peaking between December and February. Most people who contract the Flu virus will recover in a few days to less than two weeks if there are no other complications.

Symptoms in both types of Flu strains are fever, chills, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, and in some cases vomiting and diarrhea. It is best to drink lots of fluids and get rest for a quicker recovery.

So how can you best protect yourself from the influenza virus? Proper hand hygiene, washing your hands as often as possible, isolating when you are feeling ill, wearing a mask, coughing or sneezing into your elbow, and getting your annual Flu vaccine.

Flu vaccines are available in regular doses and a high dose for those who are 65 and older. Each year the Flu vaccines are altered to combat the newest predicted strains of the influenza virus. Did you get your Flu shot yet this year? Franklin VNA and Hospice still has them available- call today to inquire! 603-934-3454

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html

Employee Recognition

Recipe of the Month

Fundraisers

Looking for a way to remember a loved one?

How about in our Hospice Garden?

With a donation of $50 you receive a custom brick in the memory of a lost loved one. The brick will be honored in the Teuscher-Wilson Hospice Garden, which is pictured at the top left. Bricks are on sale all year round and dedicated in a ceremony once a year.

 Other opportunities are open for larger donations as Diamond, Opal, and Amethyst sponsors. Please click on the link below for more information.

Clinics and Free Support Groups

Drop-In Grief Support Group

no registration needed

Employment Opportunities