Joel Theisen, Lifespark CEO and guest, Anne Tumlinson suggest that we have not embraced the opportunity within value-based care to produce meaningful outcomes – the payment model is not the core problem, value-based is not the enemy. We need accountability, leadership, creativity, and commitment to transform health care – and Anne and Joel cover a lot of that ground in this podcast.
Putting all of that discussion aside, they take a step back and look at who we are really trying to serve. For Lifespark and Anne’s work with ATI and Daughterhood, that’s seniors and their families. Are we morally failing them? There’s good intent by many in health care to try to serve seniors better and lower long-term costs but both and Anne and Joel question if we are doing it the right way and they discuss this in the podcast. Anne looks at this through the lens of both a daughter and a policy maker and believes there’s an unbelievable amount of suffering that’s happening as a result of the disconnected experience people face. Families are creating their own completely unique and separate system of care delivery on its own, without any help, and managing it. “It’s ridiculously inefficient,” says Anne. “And it makes me uncomfortable morally.”
Joel and Anne get serious in this podcast about what we need to accomplish, specifically, to create better systems of care. Having full actual risk, not just parts of the ‘value-based’ craze of caring for populations but going at-risk to serve them fully and produce measurable results is the only way to move the needle. It’s more than a monthly allocation per plan per member but total global risk for the individual. When you do that, you look at who you serve a little differently – you see them as a person beyond their diagnosis or episode to what will help them long-term and use their health plan to give them wellness, not sickness, to keep them thriving.
PACE and Medicare Advantage plans have pieces of what people need but they aren’t accessible by all seniors. Anne and Joel get candid about how there are a lot of pathways today that exist to put together all of these models and funding streams to make it available for every senior – not just the rich, poor, healthiest or sickest, but all. The good news that should perk the ears of health care execs listening – there are financial rewards for being human in health care.
This podcast was full of interesting nuggets and takeaways. Regardless of what you believe or how you think health care delivery should be solved, the message by Anne and Joel was loud and clear: we have only a few years to figure this out and make the investments we need right now to serve the senior population. And if we don’t, we will continue to fail our seniors. Even the biggest organizations like Amazon and CVS will soon find, there’s no value in that.
Listen to our latest podcast and subscribe to get the latest episode delivered right to your inbox and explore our other podcasts with Steve Gillon and Richard Leider. And if you’re ready to get serious on serving seniors, let’s partner. Aging Magnificently will take all of us.
Caring for Aging Parents: Let FirstLight Lighten Your LoadWatching your parents age and begin to need help can be one of lifes most emotional and challenging transitions. As they require assistance with everyday tasksfrom getting dressed to grocery shoppingit can feel overwhelming to shoulder these responsibilities on your own. At FirstLight Home Care, were here to support you and your loved ones with compassionate care that makes a difference.The Challenges of Caring for Aging ParentsBeing a primary caregiver for your aging parents can be as rewarding as it is exhausting. Between managing your own responsibilitieswork, family, and personal needsit may feel like there arent enough hours in the day. Many caregivers find themselves stretched thin, sacrificing sleep, hobbies, and social connections to meet the needs of their parents.This cycle often leads to burnout. The constant physical, mental, and emotional demands can leave you drained, making it harder to provide the care your loved ones deserve. Its common to feel like youve lost your sense of self, but remember: you dont have to do it all alone.Supporting Your Aging ParentsThe level of care your parents need depends on their situation. Some may only require occasional check-ins, while others may need help with daily routines like showering, preparing meals, or managing medications.As health challenges grow, these responsibilities can feel like a full-time job. Its a heavy load for one person to carry, especially when trying to balance everything else in life. Thats where FirstLight Home Care steps in to help.How Companion Care Makes a DifferenceAt FirstLight, we offer a range of senior care services, including companion care, dementia care, respite care, and more. Our caregivers are carefully matched to each familys unique needs, bringing much-needed relief to those caring for aging parents.Companionship and Emotional SupportLoneliness is common among seniors, but our compassionate caregivers bring connection and joy to their daily lives. Whether its sharing stories, assisting with communication, or helping them stay socially active, our team is here to keep your parents engaged and happy.Daily Living AssistanceFrom light housekeeping to meal preparation, our caregivers ensure your loved ones home remains a clean, safe, and healthy space. They can also help with hygiene, toileting, and mobility, all while treating your parents with the dignity and respect they deserve.Relieving Family Caregiver StressHaving professional support means youll have more time and energy for yourselfand for your parents. Instead of being overwhelmed by caregiving duties, you can focus on strengthening your relationship with them and creating meaningful memories.Let Us Support Your FamilyCaring for aging parents is no small task, but you dont have to do it alone. At FirstLight Home Care, were here to share the load and provide expert care that brings peace of mind to you and your family.Whether your parents need help with daily activities, companionship, or more specialized care, our trained caregivers are ready to step in and provide the support they deserve.Reach out to FirstLight Home Care today to explore personalized care options near you.Ready to learn more?Discover how FirstLight can make life easier for you and your loved ones. Contact us for personalized pricing or visit your nearest location to begin. Together, we can help your parents live their best lifewhile giving you the space to thrive, too. Call FirstLight Home Care in Bloomington at 612-473-3227.
Six Simple Strategies to Help Seniors Sleep BetterHow did you sleep last night? With National Sleep Awareness Week taking place from March 10th to 16th, its the perfect time to think about your bedtime habits and explore ways to improve your sleep quality.A restful nights sleep is like a reset button for your body and mind, and its especially important for seniors. Good sleep can boost your mood, sharpen your mind, and strengthen your immune system. However, as we age, getting those precious Zs can become more challenging. Changes in sleep patterns, along with environmental and emotional factors, often lead to restless nights.If counting sheep has become your nightly ritual, dont worryyoure not alone, and help is here. The Seniors Helping Seniors team has six simple, practical tips to help you sleep better and wake up refreshed. Lets dive in!1. Stick to a Relaxing Bedtime RoutineYour body loves routines, especially when it comes to winding down for the night. Create a calming bedtime ritual that works for youlike reading a book, doing some light stretches, or meditating. These activities signal to your body that its time to relax. Not sure where to start? Your Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can help you incorporate these soothing habits into your evening routine.2. Power Down Your ScreensScrolling through your phone or catching up on emails before bed might seem harmless, but the blue light from screens can disrupt your natural sleep hormones. Try putting your devices away at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, swap that screen time for a calming activity like listening to music or journaling.3. Create a Cozy Sleep SanctuaryA good mattress and supportive pillows can make all the difference in how you feel the next morning. Look for bedding that keeps you at a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Your bedroom should also be dark, quiet, and coolthink of it as your personal sleep haven.4. Limit Afternoon NapsA quick nap can recharge your energy, but long or late-day naps might mess with your nighttime sleep. Keep naps short20 to 30 minutesand try to rest earlier in the day. This way, you can still enjoy a power nap without affecting your bedtime.5. Get Moving During the DayPhysical activity isnt just great for your overall healthit also helps you sleep better. Even 30 minutes of light exercise like walking or yoga can work wonders. Just remember to keep workouts earlier in the day, as late-night exercise might leave you too energized to fall asleep.6. Mind Your Evening MenuWhat you eat and drink before bed can influence your sleep. Heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime can leave you tossing and turning. Instead, try something soothing, like a cup of herbal tea or warm milk, to help you unwind. Need help with meal planning? Seniors Helping Seniors caregivers are happy to lend a hand.Bonus Tip: Keep Your Wake-Up Time ConsistentYour body thrives on routine, so try waking up at the same time every dayeven on weekends. A consistent wake-up time helps regulate your internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.If youve tried these tips and are still struggling with sleep, it might be time to seek professional advice. A healthcare provider or sleep specialist can help identify underlying issues, like sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome, and recommend tailored solutions.Sleep is vital for your health and well-being, and you deserve to wake up every day feeling your best. Your Seniors Helping Seniors team is here to support you in creating healthy sleep habits that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Sweet dreams!
Managing your finances can feel daunting, especially as lifes expenses add up. But with the right strategies, you can take control, stretch your dollars, and enjoy peace of mind. Here at Seniors Helping Seniors, we believe financial independence is empowering, and were here to help! From grocery savings to solar panels, these practical tips will guide you toward a brighter, more secure future.1. Shop Smart and Save at the Grocery StoreMany grocery stores offer senior discountsan easy way to save on everyday essentials. Pairing these discounts with meal planning can help stretch your weekly budget. Need a hand? A Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can assist with planning nutritious meals while keeping costs down.2. Tap Into Free or Low-Cost Community ResourcesYour community likely offers a variety of free or low-cost services designed for seniors. Think meal delivery programs, recreational activities, or transportation services. Staying active and connected doesnt have to break the bank, and these resources can add tremendous value to your lifestyle without adding to your expenses.3. Take Advantage of Senior DiscountsFrom restaurants to retail stores, discounts for seniors are everywhere! Many establishments offer lower prices or special deals for older adults. Whether its a favorite coffee spot or a hardware store, these small savings add up, making it easier to enjoy your favorite things while staying within your budget.4. Use a Budgeting App to Track Your SpendingSimplify money management with a budgeting app. These tools make it easy to monitor your spending on groceries, utilities, entertainment, and more. If technology feels overwhelming, your caregiver can guide you through setup and show you how to track your finances effectively. Its a small step that leads to big financial clarity.5. Automate Savings and Bill PaymentsAvoid late fees and grow your savings by automating your finances. Set up automatic transfers to your savings account or schedule recurring bill payments through your bank. This hassle-free approach helps ensure your bills are always paid on time, leaving you more time to focus on what matters most.6. Work With a Caregiver for Personalized SupportA Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can be your budgeting buddy. From spotting local discounts to helping you navigate government programs, your caregiver can provide personalized assistance. Together, you can create a financial plan that fits your needs, so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying life.7. Save on Energy with Solar PanelsIf youre ready to invest in long-term savings, consider solar panels. They harness renewable energy, reducing your electricity bills and your carbon footprint. With available tax credits and rebates, going solar might be more affordable than you think. Plus, its a great way to contribute to a greener planet.A Brighter Financial Future AwaitsYour golden years should be filled with joy, not financial stress. These tips are designed to help you budget smarter and save more, empowering you to live life fully and confidently. If youre feeling overwhelmed, our Seniors Helping Seniors team is here to help. With expert guidance and a caring approach, well work alongside you to create a plan that fits your life.Lets tackle those finances togetheryouve got this!Seniors Helping Seniors Making Life Easier, One Step at a TimeFor more tips and support, visit our website or contact your local Seniors Helping Seniors office.
While other home health providers focus mainly on your physical health issues, Lifespark's whole-person approach helps you remain more independent, significantly reduces ER visits and hospitalizations, and lowers your long-term health care costs. Our Skilled Home Health team delivers services covered by Medicare and other insurers to help you get back on track following an illness or an injury, or whenever your doctor orders them.
At Lifespark Hospice, we focus on you as a whole person. That includes your happiness, your comfort, your wishes, and yes, your life as you want to live it. That's where we start. Then, we surround you and your family with a team of compassionate people who look for creative ways to make every day meaningful. Your hospice team can include our hospice medical director, nurses, social workers, spiritual and bereavement counselors, hospice aides, specially trained volunteers, a music therapist, and a massage therapist. Your Hospice team meets you wherever you are on your life journey. To support you and your family, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. To keep you engaged in life. To make sure your needs and wishes are understood and honored. And to help you prepare for the transition ahead.
What Can We Do For You?We want you to live a sparked and independent life. For that to happen, our passionate team works to understand your needs, wishes, and goals. We are your life-long advocates, ready to connect you to the right team at the right time. That is why we start with a free, no obligation consultation along with a start of care discovery by an RN Case Manager. From there we offer:Ongoing Free Access to Lifespark's 24/7 Everyday Support ServicesCompanionship and Meaningful ActivitiesHomemakingTransportationSafety and SupervisionFall PreventionLive-In CaregivingMobilityMedication Assistance and RemindersSupport for clients with memory loss or dementiaSpecialty CarePersonal CareCall us today at 952-345-8770 or visit us at lifespark.com