Acupuncture for Diabetes

What Is HomeShare?The SWFL Senior HomeShare program connects seniors who own homes with seniors seeking affordable housing. This voluntary matching program helps homeowners offset rising costs while offering home seekers safe, stable, and affordable living arrangements.Importantly, HomeShare is not a caregiving or assisted living program. All participants must be able to live independently without full-time care or assistance.How It WorksThe HomeShare process is simple, secure, and thoughtfully designed to ensure compatibility and comfort for everyone involved. Apply Complete the online application or download a form to submit. Screening Applicants complete background checks and interviews for safety and peace of mind. Matching We connect compatible homeowners and home seekers based on preferences and lifestyle. Agreement Participants create a written household agreement outlining expectations. Move-In Begin your homesharing arrangement and enjoy the benefits of shared living. Benefits of HomesharingFor Homeowners Extra income to offset rising costs Companionship and reduced isolation Shared household responsibilities Ability to stay in your home longer For Home Seekers Affordable, stable housing options Safe and comfortable living environments Community connection and friendship Flexible cost-sharing arrangements Program EligibilityTo participate in SWFL Senior HomeShare, applicants must: Be 55 years or older Be able to live independently (no full-time caregiving needs) Pass a national background check Provide three verifiable references Home seekers: Show proof of income Homeowners: Own a home in good standing Note: This is not emergency housing. Matches are made thoughtfully to create lasting, comfortable arrangements, which may take time. Important DistinctionsWhat HomeShare Is NOT Caregiving program Assisted living Home healthcare Emergency housingWhat HomeShare IS Independent living arrangement Voluntary room-sharing program Cost-sharing partnership Community-based housing solutionUnderstanding Program ResponsibilitiesThe SWFL Senior HomeShare program acts as a facilitator and intermediary, connecting home providers with home seekers safely and fairly.What We Do Screen and interview all applicants Conduct background checks Facilitate introductions between compatible matches Provide agreement templates and helpful resources Offer quarterly check-ins during the first year What We Dont Do Own or control participating properties Enforce agreements between participants Provide legal advice or representation Participate in disputes between home providers and home seekers Your ResponsibilitiesAll homesharing arrangements are voluntary agreements between participants. SWFL Senior HomeShare, the Home Coalition, the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, and affiliated organizations: Make no guarantees about match outcomes Are not liable for disputes, damages, or issues arising from arrangements Do not verify or guarantee participant-provided information Each participant is responsible for: Deciding whether to accept or reject a match Conducting their own due diligence Seeking legal or financial advice if needed Following fair housing and Florida landlord-tenant laws Frequently Asked QuestionsHow long does matching take?Matching is a careful, individualized process. While some matches happen within weeks, others may take several months. Our priority is quality and compatibilitynot speedto create stable, long-term living arrangements.Who is responsible if theres a problem with my homeshare arrangement?Homeshare agreements are private arrangements between participants. SWFL Senior HomeShare facilitates introductions but is not a party to your agreement and cannot enforce terms or provide legal representation.What is the cost?There is no cost to apply or participate in SWFL Senior HomeShare, thanks to support from the Collaboratory and AARP grants. When a match is made, the first months rent is split 50/50 between the home provider and the program to help sustain operations. Afterward, rent payments are made directly between participants per their agreement, with shared responsibility for utilities and other expenses.Can I choose my match?Absolutely! Participants have full control over their match decisions. We facilitate introductions and provide guidance, but both parties must mutually agree before finalizing any arrangement.What if it doesnt work out?Either party may end the HomeShare agreement with proper written notice. Open communication is encouraged, but if necessary, homeowners may need to follow Floridas legal eviction process. The program can provide guidance but does not intervene in disputes.Building Community Through Connection The SWFL Senior HomeShare program is more than just housingits about connection, independence, and community. By bringing seniors together through shared living, we create meaningful partnerships that reduce isolation, ease financial stress, and help more people age in place safely and comfortably.

Forget everything you've heard  about "aging gracefully" - Dr. Giselle breaks down why looking good after 55 isn't vanity, it's wellness. This no nonsense guide explores how body contouring procedures like liposuction, skin tightening with Renuvion, and strategic med spa treatments (tox and fillers) can dramatically improve quality of life for older adults. Learn why your body works differently after menopause, why diet and exercise aren't always enough, and how the right aesthetic interventions can boost mobility, confidence, mental health and social engagement. 

The search for the right primary care doctor can feel overwhelming. Many patients express frustration with long wait times, short visits, and difficulty accessing their physician when they need them most. In todays fast-paced healthcare environment, finding a doctor who prioritizes patient care is more important than ever.   One emerging alternative is Direct Primary Care (DPC), a model that shifts the focus back to the patient by eliminating insurance hassles. Instead of dealing with copays and billing, patients pay a flat monthly fee for direct access to their doctor, longer appointment times, and a more personalized healthcare experience. Availability and Access How long will it take to get your first appointment? Some traditional practices have months-long waits. In contrast, DPC providers typically offer initial visits within a week, ensuring you receive care when you need it. Office Experience Time spent in the waiting room can be a major frustration. In conventional practices, patients may wait an hour or more before seeing the doctor. DPC practices prioritize efficiency, often reducing wait times to just minutes. Time With Your Doctor Short, rushed appointments can leave patients feeling unheard. In many traditional offices, physicians are booked in 15- to 20-minute intervals, limiting discussion time. DPC physicians often schedule longer visits sometimes up to an hourallowing for in-depth conversations, thorough exams, and more thoughtful treatment plans. Communication and Follow-Up Reaching your doctor can be a challenge. Many patients endure long hold times or leave messages that go unanswered. In the DPC model, direct communication is key. Patients often have access via phone, email, or text for prompt, personalized care. Urgent Needs Medical concerns dont always arise during business hours. Traditional practices may not offer same-day visits, pushing patients toward urgent care or ERs. DPC providers aim to accommodate same- or next-day appointments, reducing unnecessary trips and ensuring continuity of care. Choosing a primary care doctor is personal. Look for a physician who is experienced, accessible, compassionate, and committed to your well-being. Asking the right questionsand exploring models like DPCcan lead to a more satisfying healthcare experience.   Editors Note: This article was written by Dr. Rebecca L. Byard, Family Medicine Doctor with Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh. She can be reached at 412-892-9170 or visit their website at wwwdirectcarepgh.com. See ad on pages 2-3.