For more information about the author, click to view their website: www.AmadaPittsburghNW.com
Until 100 years ago, many people never traveled more than 10 miles from the home in which they were born or lived in when they got married, which was usually down the street or the next farm over. Families remained grouped together for many reasons, including having emigrated from a foreign country and starting a new life together. There was strength in numbers: both economic advantages and in perpetuating long-held traditions that would tie loved ones together in the face of new challenges. Where seniors were concerned, the expectation that younger family members would always care for them was implied—and something not all that difficult if people were living within steps of one another.
Clearly things have changed, and adult children can be hundreds and thousands of miles away from aging parents. This can make it challenging to determine changes in physical, mental and emotional health, often leading to stress and guilt. While long-distance caregiving isn’t always the answer, there are things families can do to help ensure their senior loved one’s needs are monitored and met.
1 Hold a Family Meeting to Plan In-Home Care for a Senior Loved One
First, organizationally, if there are multiple adult children and other family members that can provide long-distance care, have a family meeting—in person or video chat—to decide what everyone’s strengths and skillsets are and what their availability is. Tantamount to that, realistically evaluate how much each can do, knowing that a trusted neighbor or someone else outside the family and local to the senior may need to be hired to fill in any gaps.
If a family member is better at managing finances, for example, s/he should assume that responsibility when the time comes, always with written permission. A Merrill Lynch study revealed about 92 percent of family caregivers are managing their loved one’s finances, including monitoring and paying bills from bank accounts, handling insurance claims, filing taxes, and overseeing investments.
2 Communicate with Your Aging Loved One Every Day
It’s important to check in with an aging parent every day, even several times a day depending on the state of health, particularly if that individual lives alone. If the senior is adept at technology, FaceTime or other forms of video chat are always preferable as visuals are a useful tool in gauging changes. Today there are a variety of simpler forms of senior-friendly video call apps and devices available. These include but are not limited to the Jitterbug Smart3, GrandPad, and CallGenie (British-based product now available in the U.S.).
3 Connect Regularly with Your Beloved Senior’s Healthcare Providers
Schedule regular calls with physicians, visiting nurses, and/or others for up-to-date information about you loved one’s health and evolving needs. If an in-home senior care agency is involved, consistent updates should be part of the protocol.
4 Set Up a Personal Emergency Response System to Maintain a Senior’s Independence
Sometimes dubbed high-tech guardian angels, personal emergency response systems (PERS) support safe and independent living. At the touch of a button (or in some cases by voice activation) an immediate notification is sent to first responders when a fall or other medical emergency is detected. PERS devices can be worn by the senior as a pendant, or a unit can be set up strategically inside the home to provide 24/7 monitoring services.
5 Obtain a Smart Pill Dispenser for Medication Management
As people age, memory can be affected with issues that include failure to take medication or not recalling if a dose was taken or not. Multiple medications are also a byproduct of aging and facing an array of bottles every day can be confusing and disorienting for seniors. A user-friendly solution lies in medication management with automatic pill dispensers, as these smart devices for healthcare can do so much more than hold apportioned pills in a little plastic box. Smart pill devices organize medications and ensure the correct dose is dispensed at the right time, and some can also notify the caregiver if a dose is missed.
6 Explore Alternative Senior Living Arrangements
Is an aging parent amenable to moving closer to adult children? Independent living and assisted living fall under the broad banner of senior living communities and can make the stress that accompanies long-distance caregiving a thing of the past. Many seniors and their families are unsure where to start their search for assisted living and other senior housing options.
7 Plan More Frequent Visits to Keep Tabs on Your Elderly Loved One’s Welfare
Work, raising families, community responsibilities, and everything else can make life overwhelming today. But if a parent or grandparent is aging, there’s no better way to monitor needs than to visit as often as possible—even for a long weekend now and then. If there are multiple adult siblings or young adult grandchildren, spreading the visits out among family members can ease the burden of constant traveling and help ensure changes in health and mobility do not go undetected.
Besides, the opportunity to spend time with mom or dad in their sunset years is precious, and something you will never have again. In your effort to monitor things and provide support, which no one argues can be time consuming and stressful, make sure to slow down and listen. As the saying goes, “When a senior dies, a library closes.”
8 Ask for Information and Guidance from a Trusted Senior Resource
Know that an Amada Senior Care advisor has the expertise and knowledge to assist without obligation as families with aging loves ones navigate their senior care journey. Click HERE to find an Amada office near you or call (866) 752-1961.
Wheelchair ramps and other accessibility products are crucial for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These conditions can lead to physical limitations, such as difficulty with mobility, balance, and coordination, which can make everyday tasks and activities a challenge.A stroke or heart attack can impact a persons life in many ways, including the ability to enter and exit their home. The installation of a wheelchair ramp can provide a safer, more convenient means of access to and from the home, improving overall independence and quality of life.In addition to being useful for individuals who have suffered a stroke or heart attack, wheelchair ramps and other accessibility products can also be beneficial for those with other physical limitations, such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.Here, we will discuss the importance of wheelchair ramps and accessibility products for those who have survived a stroke or heart attack, and how they can make a significant difference in improving overall independence and quality of life.The Benefits of Wheelchair Ramps for People with Stroke or Heart AttackImproved MobilityThe primary benefit of a wheelchair ramp is improved mobility and independence. A ramp allows individuals who use a wheelchair or walker to safely enter and exit their home, which can increase their independence and reduce the risk of falls and other accidents. Additionally, ramps can provide a convenient means of accessing public buildings, such as grocery stores, doctors offices, and other essential locations.ConvenienceWheelchair ramps are also convenient for individuals who experience mobility challenges as a result of a stroke or heart attack. Traditional steps can be difficult to navigate, especially for those who have limited mobility, balance, or coordination. A ramp eliminates the need to navigate stairs, reducing the risk of falls and other accidents. Additionally, ramps are typically wider than steps, making it easier for individuals to maneuver and move about regardless of whether or not they use a mobility aid.Increased SafetyOne of the most important benefits of wheelchair ramps for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack is increased safety. Steps can be slippery, especially in inclement weather, increasing the risk of falls and other accidents. A ramp provides a stable, slip-resistant surface that can be used in all weather conditions. Additionally, ramps typically have handrails, providing additional support and stability for individuals who need it.Cost-Effective SolutionWheelchair ramps can also be a cost-effective solution for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. Traditional home modifications can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. A ramp is a more affordable option and may be covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs. Additionally, ramps can be installed quickly and easily, reducing the disruption to the home and daily routines.The Importance of Accessibility ProductsIn addition to wheelchair ramps, there are many other accessibility products available that can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These products can improve overall independence and quality of life, making it easier for individuals to perform everyday tasks and activities.Grab BarsGrab bars are a simple but effective accessibility product that can be installed in the bathroom, bedroom, and other areas of the home. They provide a secure and stable surface for individuals who need support when getting in and out of the shower or bath, when using the toilet, or when sitting and standing in various areas around the home. Grab bars are available in a variety of styles and finishes, making it easy to find a product that complements the dcor of the home.Stair LiftsStair lifts are a more advanced accessibility product that can be installed in homes with multiple levels. These devices allow individuals to safely navigate stairs, eliminating the need to climb steps. Stair lifts come in a variety of styles and designs, including straight and curved options, to accommodate different types of staircases. There are also options for both indoor and outdoor staircases.Transfer BenchesTransfer benches are another useful accessibility product for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These benches provide a safe and stable surface for individuals to transfer in and out of the shower or bath. Transfer benches have a slip-resistant seat and backrest, and can be adjusted to accommodate different heights.ElevatorsFor individuals who live in multi-level homes, elevators can be a convenient and cost-effective solution for improving accessibility. These devices can be installed in the home, providing individuals with a safe and secure means of accessing different levels of the home. Elevators can be customized to meet the specific needs of the individual and can be equipped with safety features, such as emergency stop buttons and intercoms.ConclusionWheelchair ramps and other accessibility products are essential for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These products can improve overall mobility, convenience, safety, and independence, making it easier for individuals to perform everyday tasks and activities. Whether you are looking to install a ramp, grab bars, stair lifts, transfer benches, or elevators, it is important to work with a reputable and experienced provider to ensure the best possible outcome. Amramp Accessibility is a leading provider of accessibility solutions and is dedicated to helping individuals with physical limitations live a more independent and fulfilling life. Contact us at 800-649-5215 to learn more.
Why After-Hospital Care at Home is Key to a Safe & Speedy Recovery for Grand Junction, Colorado SeniorsRecovering after a hospital stay? Learn how post-hospital home care supports a safe, smooth recovery, reduces complications, and prevents readmission. Discover the benefits of after-hospital care at home. Leaving the hospital is a significant step in your recovery, but the healing process doesnt stop there. Proper after-hospital care at home is essential for a smooth recovery, reducing the risk of complications and hospital readmission. In fact, research indicates that people receiving home healthcare services have a considerably lower risk of being readmitted to the hospital within 30 days compared to those who do not receive such care; this reduction can be as high as 60% in some studies. Keep reading to discover why post-hospital home care is crucial and how it can support a faster, safer return to daily life for seniors and other adults in Grand Junction and the surrounding Colorado communities.What is Post Hospital Care in Grand Junction?After-hospital carealso known as post-hospital care, transitional care, in-home recovery care, or post-hospital home carerefers to the support seniors and other adults need after being discharged from the hospital to ensure a safe and smooth recovery at home.After surgery or a hospital stay, many individuals prefer to recover at home, where they feel most comfortable. However, since they are still in the healing process, its essential to follow their doctors recommendations closely to regain strength. Depending on their condition, they may need additional support for a short period or several months.Every situation is different, which means that every person's in-home recovery care needs will be different. Transitional care services can include a wide variety of services, such as:Assistance with implementing the patients recovery planCoordination with medical staffMedication remindersPersonal careCompanionshipTransportationLight HousekeepingRespiteFamily members often step in to help with in-home recovery care, and in some cases, their support may be enough. However, professional transitional care is often necessary to ensure a safe and smooth recovery. If loved ones lack the time, skills, or energy to provide proper care, hiring an in-home recovery professional can be the best way to promote healing, prevent complications, and support a faster return to daily life.The Benefits of Post-Hospital Home Care in Grand JunctionPost-hospital home care doesnt just make a patients life easier; it has been scientifically proven to improve recovery outcomes. The benefits of post-hospital home care include:Comfort of home. Most people prefer to recover in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by loved ones in a familiar setting. A 2018 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people who received in-home recovery care experienced significantly less stress than those who remained in the hospital for an extended period.Personalization. Everyone has unique needs after a hospital stay, and at-home care allows for greater personalization than hospital-based recovery. Unlike hospitals, transitional care services are not restricted by schedules, staffing, or resource limitations. This flexibility enables patients to receive fully customized care tailored to their routines, preferences, and recovery plans.Safety. Recovery is a critical phase of healing, and post-hospital home care significantly improves the chances of a safe and smooth recovery. In-home care ensures that patients receive the supervision needed to follow their doctors recovery plan while reducing risks such as falls, infections, and medication errors. Transitional care professionals can provide medication reminders, assist with hygiene, and support daily living activities to enhance safety.Independence. Recovering at home empowers seniors and other adults to take an active role in their healing process. With support from a family member or professional caregiver, patients maintain more control over their daily lives. As their health improves, they can gradually resume more tasks on their own, fostering a sense of independence and autonomy.Community. Hospital stays can feel isolating, but at-home recovery allows patients to stay connected with friends and family. Without hospital visitation restrictions, loved ones can visit freely, and with transportation assistance, patients can continue participating in social activities aligned with their recovery plan.Cost-effectiveness. Hospital bills add up quickly, especially for extended stays. In contrast, post-hospital home care is significantly more affordable while providing greater comfort. Hiring a professional for transitional care services costs only a fraction of what a prolonged hospital stay would.Improved recovery outcomes. The greatest advantage of post-hospital home care is improved recovery. A 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that in-home recovery care not only speeds up healing but also lowers the risk of infection. Additionally, the AMA found that patients receiving post-hospital care at home are 44% less likely to be readmitted to the hospital.Simply put, in-home post-hospital care is often the best choice following a surgery or illness, and professional transitional care services can help your family make sure your loved ones needs are met. How to Prepare for After Hospital Care at HomeBefore beginning after hospital care at home, you should make a few simple preparations for yourself or your loved one.Follow these steps to build the proper infrastructure for in-home recovery care:Consult with the patients doctor about their recovery plan.Make plans for the patients transportation from the hospital to home.Clean and organize the home.Purchase and set up any necessary equipment, like shower railings.Consider the patients nutrition needs and dietary restrictions and plan meals accordingly.Prepare a schedule for any prescribed medications.Address any limitations to mobility or daily living activities. Consider hiring an in-home post-hospital care agency, like the friendly, knowledgeable team at Comfort Keepers.Enjoy a Smooth, Safe Recovery with Comfort Keepers Grand JunctionComfort Keepers Grand Junction is a post-hospital home care provider in Colorados Western Slope. Our transitional care services are designed to provide patients with the support they need to get back on their feet as soon as possible.Our agency provides in-home senior care services to seniors and other adults in Grand Junction, Redlands, Clifton, Fruita, Palisade, Whitewater, Gateway, Orchard Mesa, Appleton, Loma, Glade Park, Fruitville, Glenwood Springs, Battlement Mesa, Parachute, and Rifle, Colorado. When you choose Comfort Keepers Grand Junction, you and your loved ones can benefit from:Experienced, compassionate caregiversPersonalized recovery plansEnhanced home safetyHelp with transportation, light housekeeping, and errandsMedication remindersAssistance with daily living activities, like bathing, dressing, and mobilityPeace of mind knowing that your loved ones are taken care of by professionalsAt Comfort Keepers, our clients are more than just clients; they are family. We care for the seniors in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray, and Garfield counties like they are our own loved ones, incorporating time-tested best practices alongside cutting-edge techniques.Contact Comfort Keepers Grand Junction today to learn how our post-hospital home care services in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray, and Garfield counties can support a safe, smooth recovery call today to ask how, 970-241-8818.
How does your home care business run its marketing efforts?A successful home care marketing funnel helps attract potential clients, guide them through decision-making, and turn them into loyal advocates. The marketing funnel for home care businesses typically follows four key steps: Awareness, Consideration, Decision (Conversion), and Advocacy (Retention & Referrals). Heres how you can implement each step effectively.1. AwarenessWhat is it?At this stage, potential clients first learn about your home care services. This could be through online searches, word of mouth, or community events.Goal:Introduce your home care services to potential clients and their families.Strategies to Achieve Awareness: Local SEO Optimization Ensure your Google My Business profile and directory listings are up to date. Social Media Marketing Regularly post on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to engage potential clients. Content Marketing Share blogs, videos, and senior care guides to educate and attract attention. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Ads Target families searching for home care services. Community Engagement Attend or host local events, networking opportunities, and partnerships to build trust within the community. 2. ConsiderationWhat is it?Potential clients are now comparing their options and evaluating whether your services fit their needs.Goal:Build trust and educate potential clients about your services.Strategies to Achieve Consideration: Testimonials & Case Studies Showcase positive experiences from past clients. Free Consultations or Assessments Offer in-home evaluations to build trust. Webinars and Live Q&As Educate families about home care options. Email Nurturing Campaigns Send helpful guides and answers to common concerns. Comparison Guides Provide easy-to-read comparisons between home care vs. assisted living or private caregivers vs. agencies. 3. Decision (Conversion)What is it?This is when prospects make their final decision and choose your home care services over competitors.Goal:Convert leads into paying clients.Strategies to Achieve Conversion: Strong Calls-to-Action (CTAs) Ensure your website, social media, and ads clearly direct visitors to contact you. Easy Contact Options Provide phone, chat, and form submissions for quick communication. Transparent Pricing and Service Details Make it easy for families to understand their options. Personalized Follow-Ups A care coordinator should connect personally with leads. Trial Periods or Flexible Care Plans Reduce hesitation by offering trial services or customized plans. 4. Advocacy (Retention & Referrals)What is it?Once clients experience great care, they can become loyal advocates who refer others and leave positive reviews.Goal:Turn satisfied clients into brand advocates who help grow your reputation.Strategies to Achieve Advocacy: Client Satisfaction Surveys Gather feedback to improve services and show you care. Referral Programs Offer incentives for happy clients who recommend your services. Regular Check-ins Stay in touch with families to ensure ongoing satisfaction. Encourage Online Reviews Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp. Engagement with Past Clients Keep in touch via newsletters, community events, and support groups. A well-structured home care marketing funnel is essential for attracting potential clients, building trust, and turning them into loyal advocates. By focusing on Awareness, Consideration, Decision, and Advocacy, you can create a seamless journey that connects families with the right care solutions.At Seniors Blue Book, we help home care providers increase visibility and connect with the right audience through our trusted platform. A free listing gives you instant exposure, while our upgraded options take your marketing to the next level.Dont let your services go unnoticedget listed today and start reaching families in need. Contact us at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or call 800-201-9989 to learn more!
Chad and Vicki Craig, owners of Amada Senior Care Pittsburgh Northwest, both share a lifelong passion for serving our senior population. Having spent the last 25 years of their professional careers in advanced healthcare technologies for older adults, they understand the importance of providing the highest quality care at home so that our loved ones can age in place safely and happily.For both Chad and Vicki, providing quality care to support senior independence at home isnt just a passion, but a calling. Their appreciation for and dedication to our cherished elder community began at a young age. As a child, Chad would often choose to visit residents of a senior facility neighboring his home over playing kickball outside with friends his own age. When his father, a WWII veteran and amputee, was transitioned to a memory care facility for dementia, Chad didnt know about the options available that could have allowed his father to spend his last days enjoying the comforts of his own home. I felt guilty after my dad passed because I was not aware that I could have brought him home where he could have been in a familiar place surrounded by family, Chad recalls. Vicki experienced a very similar situation with her own grandmother, who declined quickly after she was moved from her own home to a care facility.Personalized Care for Seniors and Families in Pittsburgh NorthwestRecognizing that well-vetted, committed caregivers are a necessity to safely aging in place, Chad and Vicki felt compelled to start their own senior home care business. Chad, Vicki and the entire Amada Senior Care team have devoted themselves to delivering the highest quality of compassionate elder care. Their extraordinary level of service is the reason why Amada Senior Care Pittsburgh Northwest has a reputation for providing in-home caregivers who exceed client expectations, along with the highest rating (A+) from the Home Care Standards Bureau, the industrys standard-bearer.Chad, Vicki and the rest of the Amada Pittsburgh Northwest team couldnt offer the exceptional quality care that they do without investing time and effort into pairing trained and knowledgeable Amada caregivers with senior clients to promote their well-being and health. Their process of offering excellent caregiving assistance includes regularly checking with their senior clients and families to ensure that individual care needs and preferences are being met. Chad, Vicki, and the Amada Pittsburgh Northwest team are just as diligent in offering expert financial advisory services to help seniors and their families navigate the complexities of Long-Term Care insurance (LTCi) policies and VA benefits.We invite you to contact us at Amada Senior Care Pittsburgh Northwest to learn more about how we can be of service to help your senior loved one age with dignity and respect, while giving your family the peace of mind they deserve. We exist to enrich seniors lives by helping them retain independent living for as long as possible, and our services include providing funding solutions on how to pay for in-home care. It is our pleasure and honor to serve.Specialized Care by Amada Pittsburgh NorthWestWhen senior loved ones need assistance to manage health conditions, our trained caregivers at Amada Pittsburgh NW can address their unique needsFamilies can feel confident that Amada Pittsburgh NW caregivers have the training and education necessary to provide the specialized care meeting the individual needs of seniors who are contending with health challenges. Is your senior loved one recovering from a stroke? Does your spouse or another family member suffer from Alzheimers or dementia? Is your family trying to help an aging loved one manage symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF), diabetes, Parkinsons or another chronic condition?Assisting Senior Patients Diagnosed with Alzheimers or Dementia According to the Alzheimers Association, nearly 6.5 million Americans were living with Alzheimers or another form of dementia as of 2022. A progressive disease that destroys memory and other key mental functions, Alzheimers and other forms of dementia impact not only the senior patient but the entire family, which is where Amada Pittsburgh NW comes in. Our team of dedicated and compassionate caregivers at Amada Senior Care Pittsburgh NW are highly skilled and trained in supporting activities of daily living (ADLs) and special pursuits and activities far and above the ordinary, thus bringing to our senior clients a sense of fulfillment and joy in their everyday lives. Supporting Senior Clients to Manage Symptoms of Parkinsons Disease There is still no cure for Parkinsons disease, a brain disorder characterized by shaking, stiffness, difficulty walking and talking, and balance and coordination issues. The symptoms of Parkinsons typically begin on a gradual basis worsen over time, so families can expect that a loved one diagnosed with the disease will need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) at some stage of this progressive disease. The professional caregivers at Amada Pittsburgh NW are trained and well-versed in how to assist seniors and other adults who are managing life with Parkinsons. Amada caregivers can help adapt the home environment, help monitor systems and communicate changes to the care team and family members, provide medication reminders, assist with prescribed exercises, and much more. Dedicated Respite Care for Families When a Senior Loved One is in Hospice When a senior loved one begins the journey of hospice care, an increased level of care and responsibility naturally come along with the familys deepening concerns. Whats required of the family can be unrelenting and exhausting in ensuring their beloved elders last weeks and days are filled with comfort and dignity. Amadas expert, compassionate caregivers can provide a much-needed respite from the continuous care and extreme mental and emotional output that accompany the final passage. With emotions running high, family members often neglect their most basic needs including showering, eating and sleeping. The option to step away for a brea can provide family members with the opportunity to rest, refresh and regroupknowing their parent, grandparent or spouse is in excellent handsreturning better able to be fully present with their loved one. Call 724-318-6668 to speak with one of our senior care advisors and find out more about how we can help either you or a senior loved one. Click on the links below to learn more about how Amada caregivers can help senior clients manage symptoms of various disease states. Alzheimers and Dementia Congestive Heart Failure COPD Diabetes Hypertension Parkinsons Stroke Recovery