As the Holiday Rush Comes, Consider Home Care for Help

Author

Visiting Angels Florida West Coast

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Visiting Angels

Posted on

Dec 04, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties , Florida - Southwest

Share This

At this time of year, you no doubt have your hands full. Getting everything ready for the holidays, in addition to your regular responsibilities, can be nerve-racking. Add in caring for a senior loved one, and the stress levels can be off the charts, especially if you are their primary caregiver. If you are running out of free moments and getting filled with frustration, you may want to consider turning to an in-home caregiver for help, especially at this time of year. Having a compassionate home care worker who is dedicated to caring for your senior can be like having an extra pair of helping hands, which, especially around the holidays, can be invaluable.

How They Can Help

Home care workers are trained professionals whose job it is to ensure your senior loved ones are safe and well-cared for. They can do everything from helping your senior with daily hygiene and getting dressed to spotting tripping hazards throughout the home. If your senior is writing out Christmas cards and drops all of them on the floor, a home care worker can even be there to gather them all up so your senior loved one doesn’t need to worry about bending over or tripping. After your senior prepares Christmas cookies, home care workers can do the dishes for your senior, so they don’t have to stand on their wobbly legs for too long. Or they can reach higher items such as rarely used spices from cabinets for your senior. They can even help with the actual preparation of food.

Home care workers can even simply provide companionship for your senior loved one, which is especially valuable for seniors as they often feel lonely or depressed around the holidays.

They can sit with your senior and talk about their plans for the holidays or listen to their stories about past Christmases. If your senior loves telling the origin story for each of the ornaments on the tree, home caregivers can be engaged, listeners and talkers. They even can sit with your senior and watch holiday movies. Home care workers can anticipate your senior’s needs and help with them. They also will follow a specific set of instructions and plans that you and your senior loved one work out ahead of time, so they can target the area they specifically need help with. 

How Frequently They Can Help

It’s natural to want to be with your senior as much as possible and to do all you can for them. You might be thinking you don’t need a full-time caregiver. Home care workers do not need to be there all of the time. They can be there 24 hours a day, but they also can be present just in the morning when your senior loved one is getting ready or just at dinner to help them with meal prep or clean up. They can take care of the jobs that you find more frustrating when working with your senior and be there just for that part of the day. They even can just help out for a set period of time each week as you run errands. Many home care agencies, including Visiting Angels Punta Gorda, can work with you to come up with a schedule that works with your needs. Professional home care workers also can offer respite care, which means they come in to give the primary caregiver a break at certain times. For example, if you want to head out to your annual family holiday tea and your senior loved one won’t be coming, they can be on hand for a couple of hours it takes you to enjoy the event. If you are exhausted from all of your holiday preparations, they can also offer respite care so you can nap and refresh for your time with your senior loved one.

Benefits

Having an in-home caregiver assist your senior loved one can make all of the difference in your level of stress this holiday season. In turn, it can help improve your relationship with your senior loved one and make the holidays happier. If you are spending less time helping them get ready each morning or carefully watching over them every second of the day, you can have more time to enjoy their company. If you have less to worry about, you can find more joy in each moment with your senior loved one. Freeing up some of your time around the holidays can give you time to focus on what is most important in your life and to enjoy this precious time with your senior loved one.

A Helping Hand

If you are looking for help with your senior loved one this holiday season and every season of the year, our professionals at Visiting Angels Punta Gorda are here to help. We provide a variety of home care services, including companion care, fall prevention, a safe and steady program and more. 

Our expert team of caregivers serves clients in Punta Gorda, North Fort Myers, Boca Grande, Cape Coral, Sanibel, Captiva, Arcadia and surrounding areas. To learn more about our services, call us at 941-347-8288, or fill out an online form here.

Other Articles You May Like

Cherishing Our Seniors: Exploring the Heart of Senior Care

As we age, it's essential to prioritize the well-being and comfort of our seniors. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe in cherishing our seniors and providing them with the care and support they deserve. In this blog post, we'll delve into the heart of senior care, exploring the ways in which we can honor and uplift our elders.Understanding the Importance of Senior CareSenior care encompasses a wide range of services and support designed to enhance the quality of life for older adults. From assisting with daily tasks to providing companionship and emotional support, senior care plays a vital role in ensuring that seniors can age with dignity and independence.The Heart of Senior CareCompanionship and Connection: One of the most significant aspects of senior care is providing companionship and fostering meaningful connections. Many seniors experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially if they live alone or have limited social interactions. Caregivers and family members can offer companionship by spending time with seniors, engaging in conversations, and participating in activities together.Promoting Independence: While it's essential to offer support to seniors when needed, it's equally important to promote their independence and autonomy. Encourage seniors to maintain as much independence as possible by involving them in decision-making processes and respecting their preferences and choices. Simple tasks like meal preparation, household chores, and personal care activities can help seniors feel empowered and capable.Ensuring Safety and Comfort: Creating a safe and comfortable environment is paramount in senior care. Evaluate the senior's living space for potential hazards and make necessary modifications to enhance safety, such as installing grab bars, improving lighting, and removing tripping hazards. Additionally, ensure that the home is comfortable and conducive to the senior's needs, considering factors like temperature control, seating options, and accessibility.Health and Wellness: Prioritizing seniors' health and wellness is fundamental to their overall well-being. Encourage regular medical check-ups and screenings to monitor their health status and address any concerns promptly. Promote healthy lifestyle habits, including nutritious eating, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. Additionally, consider incorporating holistic wellness practices such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi to promote physical and mental wellness.Supporting Emotional Well-being: Seniors may face various emotional challenges as they age, including grief, loss, and anxiety. It's essential to provide emotional support and create a nurturing environment where seniors feel valued and understood. Listen actively to their concerns, validate their feelings, and offer reassurance and encouragement. Encourage participation in social activities and hobbies that bring joy and fulfillment.Planning for the Future: As seniors age, it's crucial to plan for the future and make arrangements for their care and well-being. Discuss topics such as advanced care directives, estate planning, and long-term care options to ensure that their wishes are honored and their needs are met. Involve seniors in decision-making processes and provide them with the necessary support and resources to plan for the future with confidence.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe in cherishing our seniors and providing them with the care and support they deserve. Our team is dedicated to promoting the well-being and independence of seniors through compassionate care and personalized support. With our heart-centered approach to senior care, we strive to create meaningful connections, ensure safety and comfort, and empower seniors to live their best lives. Let us be your partner in cherishing and honoring the seniors in your life.

From Chaos to Calm: The Power of Professional Organizers for Seniors

Transitioning into the senior years can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when faced with the challenges of clutter and disorganization. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of bringing calm and order to seniors' lives. In this blog post, we'll explore how professional organizers can transform chaos into calm for seniors, providing practical tips and guidance along the way.Understanding the Impact of Chaos on SeniorsFor many seniors, maintaining a clutter-free and organized living space becomes increasingly challenging as they age. Clutter can contribute to stress, anxiety, and even safety hazards, impacting both physical and mental well-being. Understanding the impact of chaos on seniors is crucial in recognizing the need for professional organizing services.The Power of Professional Organizers for SeniorsCompassionate Guidance: Professional organizers specializing in senior care offer compassionate guidance and support throughout the organizing process. They understand the unique needs and challenges seniors face and provide non-judgmental assistance in decluttering and organizing their living spaces.Customized Solutions: Every senior's situation is unique, which is why professional organizers tailor their services to meet individual needs. They assess the client's living environment, preferences, and mobility considerations to develop customized organizing solutions that promote functionality and independence.Decluttering Expertise: Seniors may accumulate belongings over the years, leading to clutter and disorganization. Professional organizers have the expertise to help seniors declutter their homes efficiently and effectively. They assist in sorting through possessions, identifying items to keep, donate, or discard, and implementing practical storage solutions.Safety and Accessibility: Safety is paramount, especially for seniors living independently. Professional organizers prioritize safety by creating clutter-free and accessible living spaces. They address potential hazards, such as tripping risks and blocked pathways, and implement safety measures such as installing grab bars and improving lighting.Emotional Support: Sorting through belongings can evoke strong emotions for seniors, particularly when parting with sentimental items. Professional organizers offer emotional support and encouragement throughout the process, helping seniors make decisions that align with their goals and values while respecting their emotional attachment to certain belongings.Long-Term Solutions: Professional organizing is not just about tidying up; it's about establishing sustainable systems that promote long-term organization and well-being. Organizers teach seniors practical strategies for maintaining order in their homes, empowering them to stay organized and clutter-free in the future.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we recognize the transformative power of bringing order to seniors' lives. Our team of experienced organizers is dedicated to helping seniors transition from chaos to calm, providing compassionate guidance, customized solutions, and ongoing support every step of the way. With our expertise in decluttering, organizing, and promoting safety, we create harmonious living environments where seniors can thrive independently. Let us be your partner in reclaiming peace, order, and tranquility in your home.

Finding Comfort in Change: Senior Move Management Made Simple

Change can be challenging, especially for seniors who are transitioning to a new living environment. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of finding comfort in change and strive to make the process of senior move management as simple and stress-free as possible. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of senior move management and provide practical tips for navigating this transition with ease. Understanding Senior Move ManagementSenior move management involves coordinating and overseeing the relocation process for seniors who are downsizing, relocating to a new home, or transitioning to a senior living community. This comprehensive service encompasses everything from decluttering and packing to coordinating logistics and settling into a new space. By partnering with experienced professionals, seniors and their families can alleviate the stress and logistical challenges associated with moving.Practical Tips for Simplifying Senior Move ManagementStart Early: Begin the senior move management process as early as possible to allow ample time for planning and preparation. Create a timeline outlining key tasks and deadlines, and break down the process into manageable steps. Starting early can help reduce stress and ensure that all aspects of the move are addressed in a timely manner.Declutter and Downsize: Before packing for the move, declutter and downsize belongings to reduce the amount of items that need to be transported. Encourage seniors to carefully consider which possessions are essential and bring joy, and let go of items that no longer serve a purpose or hold sentimental value. This process can be emotionally challenging, so offer support and encouragement throughout.Create a Floor Plan: Obtain a floor plan of the new living space and strategize furniture placement and layout in advance. This will help seniors visualize how their belongings will fit into the new environment and make informed decisions about what to bring with them. Consider the senior's mobility and accessibility needs when planning the layout to ensure a safe and comfortable living space.Pack Strategically: Pack belongings systematically, labeling boxes according to room and contents to facilitate the unpacking process. Use sturdy packing materials and protective padding for fragile items, and keep essential items easily accessible for immediate use upon arrival at the new home. Encourage seniors to pack a "first-day essentials" box containing toiletries, medications, bedding, and other necessities.Coordinate Logistics: Coordinate logistics such as hiring professional movers, scheduling transportation, and arranging for utilities to be transferred or set up at the new residence. Keep important documents, such as medical records, legal paperwork, and financial documents, organized and easily accessible throughout the moving process. Consider enlisting the help of a senior move management company to streamline these logistics and ensure a smooth transition.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand that change can be overwhelming, especially for seniors facing a relocation. Our team of experienced professionals is here to provide compassionate support and expert guidance every step of the way. With our comprehensive senior move management services, we aim to simplify the transition process and help seniors find comfort in change. Let us be your trusted partner in navigating this important life transition with ease and peace of mind.

Local Services By This Author

Visiting Angels

Non-Medical 999 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, Florida, 34108

Visiting Angels has been a trusted provider of elder care services in the United States since 1998, committed to offering families the best in-home care for seniors. Operating in southern Lee County, FL, Visiting Angels Fort Myers serves the Fort Myers, Estero, and Bonita Springs areas, providing personalized non-medical in-home care services. Our experienced and passionate caregivers, known as Angels, assist with meal preparation, personal care, laundry, transportation, light housekeeping, and errands, tailored to each individual's needs.Owned and operated by Kathleen Fleming, RN, BS, CDP, Executive Director, and Karen Hill, Director of Finance, Visiting Angels of SW Florida ensures that seniors can age comfortably in their own homes while maintaining their independence and self-worth. Our on-call office staff is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and meet all homecare needs.What sets Visiting Angels apart is our thorough assessment process. Every client is assessed by an experienced Registered Nurse before services begin, allowing us to identify underlying health and personal issues. This assessment guides the caregiver's care plan and is followed by ongoing assessments. We also make referrals to medical professionals if needed, enhancing our clients' lives and well-being.We prioritize the safety and security of our clients, partnering with ClearStar for comprehensive background screenings on all caregivers. This ensures that only the most trustworthy individuals are invited into our clients' homes.If your loved one needs assistance with daily tasks or requires short-term care following hospitalization or surgery, contact us for a complimentary personal assessment conducted by a Registered Nurse. Visiting Angels is here to provide compassionate and professional care for your loved ones.

Visiting Angels

Home Health 999 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, Florida, 34108

Visiting Angels has been a trusted provider of elder care services in the United States since 1998, committed to offering families the best in-home care for seniors. Operating in southern Lee County, FL, Visiting Angels Fort Myers serves the Fort Myers, Estero, and Bonita Springs areas, providing personalized non-medical in-home care services. Our experienced and passionate caregivers, known as Angels, assist with meal preparation, personal care, laundry, transportation, light housekeeping, and errands, tailored to each individual's needs.Owned and operated by Kathleen Fleming, RN, BS, CDP, Executive Director, and Karen Hill, Director of Finance, Visiting Angels of SW Florida ensures that seniors can age comfortably in their own homes while maintaining their independence and self-worth. Our on-call office staff is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and meet all homecare needs.What sets Visiting Angels apart is our thorough assessment process. Every client is assessed by an experienced Registered Nurse before services begin, allowing us to identify underlying health and personal issues. This assessment guides the caregiver's care plan and is followed by ongoing assessments. We also make referrals to medical professionals if needed, enhancing our clients' lives and well-being.We prioritize the safety and security of our clients, partnering with ClearStar for comprehensive background screenings on all caregivers. This ensures that only the most trustworthy individuals are invited into our clients' homes.If your loved one needs assistance with daily tasks or requires short-term care following hospitalization or surgery, contact us for a complimentary personal assessment conducted by a Registered Nurse. Visiting Angels is here to provide compassionate and professional care for your loved ones.

Visiting Angels

Non-Medical 25166 Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, Florida, 33950

Welcome to Visiting Angels Punta Gorda! We provide senior care services in Punta Gorda, North Fort Myers, Arcadia, Boca Grande, Cape Coral, Captiva, Sanibel Florida, and the surrounding areas. Our in-home senior care services are designed to bring peace of mind to families and are adaptable to meet the special needs of your loved ones.Our ServicesFrom companion care a few hours each week to around-the-clock care for those with advanced Alzheimer's, our team of dedicated, compassionate, state-certified caregivers has the experience and expertise you seek. Our services include:Companion CarePersonal CareAlzheimer's and Dementia CareRespite CareAssistance with Daily Living ActivitiesTrusted CaregiversAll of our caregivers are bonded and insured by our agency. We do not use independent contractors, ensuring that you receive consistent, high-quality care from our team members.Free Consultation If you have a loved one who needs personalized in-home care, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to providing compassionate care and support to your family.