Four Signs It May Be Time For Assisted Living For Your Senior Loved One
Senior Care Authority - Pittsburgh Market
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Senior Care Authority North Pittsburgh
Jan 08, 2024
Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area
It's a difficult decision to make, but sometimes it becomes clear that our older loved ones need more care than we can provide at home. If you're struggling with the decision of whether or not to place your parent or spouse in an assisted living facility, this blog post is for you. Here are some signs that it might be time to start considering assisted living.
1. Are simple activities becoming difficult?
Assisted living facilities are designed to help seniors with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. If your loved one is struggling with any of these activities, it might be time to consider assisted living.
2. Does your loved one have difficulty with living independently?
Another sign that assisted living might be the best option is if your elderly loved one is having difficulty paying bills, getting around to run simple errands, or attending appointments. If getting from point A to point B has become a challenge, assisted living can help. Most facilities offer transportation services for their residents and have services on-site for a variety of needs.
3. Has there been a decline in your loved one’s hygiene or appearance?
Has your loved one started to neglect their personal hygiene? Are they no longer keeping up with their usual grooming routine? This could be a sign that they need assistance with activities like bathing and dressing.
4. Are you noticing changes in mood or behavior?
Sometimes changes in mood or behavior can be a sign of declining health. Has your usually cheerful loved one become withdrawn or depressed? Do they have sudden outbursts of anger? These changes could be indicative of a larger health issue that might be best addressed in an assisted living facility.
Making the Decision Together
Once you have decided that assisted living is the best option, it’s important to involve your loved one in the decision-making process as much as possible. Let your Senior Care Authority advisor assess their care needs, explain the options, and schedule tours of places that best fit the needs of your family. Include your loved ones in the process as much as possible so they feel that they are part of the decision to choose the next place they will call home. If possible, try not to wait too long as adaptive skills can decrease with the progression of age or cognitive decline.
Finding the best senior living setting for your loved one can be an overwhelming task, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The experts at Senior Care Authority are here to help! We offer a variety of services designed to help seniors live their best life possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you and your family.
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Resources Every Family Caregiver Should Know About
Caring for a loved one can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it also comes with its challenges. Family caregivers often wear multiple hats, juggling work, family, and caregiving responsibilities. Knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference in managing the stress and ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care. Here are some essential resources every family caregiver should be aware of:Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)AAAs provide a wealth of information and services tailored to seniors and their caregivers. From meal delivery and transportation to caregiver training and respite care programs, these agencies are a critical first step for many caregivers. You can find your local AAA through the Eldercare Locator.Support GroupsCaregiving can feel isolating, but youre not alone. Support groupsboth in-person and onlineconnect you with others who understand your journey. Platforms like Family Caregiver Alliance or local support groups can offer emotional support, practical tips, and a sense of community.Respite Care ServicesTaking care of yourself is vital to being an effective caregiver. Respite care offers short-term relief by providing professional caregiving services, either at home or in a care facility. Check with local senior care providers, such as our team at Elderlink Home Care, Inc., to learn more about these options.Financial Assistance ProgramsThe costs of caregiving can add up quickly. Programs like Medicaid Waivers, Veterans Aid and Attendance benefits, and local state assistance programs can provide financial relief. Additionally, many states offer stipends or tax credits for family caregivers.Technology Tools for CaregivingModern technology has made caregiving more manageable. Apps like CaringBridge and CareZone help you organize medical records, schedules, and communication with other family members. Medication reminder tools and wearable devices can also provide peace of mind.Caregiver Education and TrainingBecoming a caregiver often requires learning new skills. Organizations like the Alzheimers Association and AARP offer online courses, workshops, and guides to help you handle medical tasks, improve communication, and navigate the complexities of caregiving.Professional Home Care ServicesSometimes, partnering with a professional caregiver can provide the support you need. Home care services like those offered by Elderlink Home Care, Inc. allow your loved one to remain in the comfort of their home while receiving expert assistance with daily activities, personal care, and companionship.Legal and Financial Planning ResourcesHaving the proper legal and financial documents in place is crucial. Organizations like Legal Aid and National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can guide you in preparing essential documents, such as powers of attorney and advanced directives, ensuring your loved ones wishes are honored.Caregiver Counseling ServicesThe emotional toll of caregiving is real. Many mental health professionals specialize in helping caregivers navigate stress, grief, and burnout. Look for local therapists or online counseling services to prioritize your mental health.Meals on Wheels and Nutrition ServicesEnsuring your loved one eats well is a top priority. Programs like Meals on Wheels provide healthy, affordable meals delivered right to their door. Many community centers and churches also offer meal services for seniors.Final ThoughtsBeing a family caregiver is no small task, but you dont have to go it alone. By tapping into these resources, you can find the support you need to provide the best care possible for your loved one while maintaining your own well-being.At Elderlink Home Care, Inc., were here to help. Whether you need professional caregiving services or advice on navigating the complexities of senior care, feel free to contact us for guidance and support.Remember: Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one. Dont hesitate to reach out for helpits a sign of strength, not weakness!Question, please call us at 303-734-0641.
10 Foods to Help You Sleep at Night
Struggling to catch those elusive zzzs? The solution may lie right in your kitchen. Certain nutrient-packed foods possess the power to gently lull you into a deep, restorative sleep, offering a natural alternative to sleep aids. From tart cherries to fatty fish, these 10 superfoods are your ticket to blissful slumber.Unlock the Sleep-Boosting Magic of KiwiThe unassuming kiwifruit is a treasure trove of sleep-enhancing nutrients. Rich in vitamins C and E, as well as potassium and folate, kiwis have been shown to help people fall asleep faster, sleep longer, and experience better overall sleep quality. Researchers believe this may be due to the fruits high antioxidant content, which can suppress inflammatory markers, as well as its ability to address folate deficiencies and provide a natural source of the sleep-regulating hormone serotonin.Tart Cherries: Natures Melatonin BoostWhile sweet cherries may be the more popular variety, their tart counterparts are the true sleep superstars. Tart cherries, also known as sour cherries, contain above-average concentrations of melatonin, the hormone that governs our circadian rhythms and sleep-wake cycles. Studies have found that drinking tart cherry juice can significantly increase total sleep time and sleep efficiency in individuals with insomnia. The fruits powerful antioxidant properties may also contribute to its sleep-promoting effects.Malted Milk: A Nostalgic Bedtime BeverageMalted milk, made by combining milk, wheat flour, malted barley, and a touch of sugar, has long been touted as a sleep-inducing nightcap. While the exact mechanisms are unclear, the unique blend of B and D vitamins, phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium in malted milk may work in harmony to help the body relax and unwind before bed. Additionally, the melatonin naturally present in milk may enhance the sleep-supporting benefits of this classic bedtime beverage.Salmon and Other Fatty Fish: Omega-3s for SlumberSalmon, tuna, and other fatty fish are not only delicious, but they may also be the key to better sleep. These nutrient-dense proteins are rich in vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which play a crucial role in the bodys release and regulation of serotonin, a neurotransmitter essential for healthy sleep-wake cycles. A study found that people who consumed salmon three times a week experienced improved overall sleep quality and daytime functioning, particularly during the darker winter months when vitamin D levels tend to be lower.Nuts: A Handful of Sleep-Promoting NutrientsFrom almonds and walnuts to pistachios and cashews, nuts are a veritable treasure trove of sleep-boosting compounds. These crunchy snacks contain a unique blend of melatonin, omega-3s, magnesium, and zinc all of which work together to promote relaxation and facilitate restful sleep. In fact, a clinical trial involving older adults with insomnia found that a combination of melatonin, magnesium, and zinc supplements significantly improved sleep duration and quality.The Carbohydrate Connection: Rice for SlumberWhile the relationship between carbohydrates and sleep is a complex one, some research suggests that rice may be a particularly sleep-friendly grain. A study of Japanese adults found that those who regularly consumed rice reported better sleep quality compared to those who favored bread or noodles. The high glycemic index of rice may play a role, as research has shown that consuming high-GI carbohydrates a few hours before bedtime can aid in falling asleep. However, its important to note that not all carbohydrates are created equal, and sugary snacks and beverages have been linked to poorer sleep.Dairy Delights: Milk, Yogurt, and Cheese for SlumberDairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, are rich in a trifecta of sleep-promoting nutrients: tryptophan, calcium, and melatonin. Tryptophan is an amino acid that helps the body produce serotonin and melatonin, the hormones that regulate our sleep-wake cycles. Pairing dairy with carbohydrates, such as whole-grain crackers or granola, can further enhance the sleep-inducing effects by allowing the tryptophan to more easily reach the brain. Additionally, the calcium and vitamin D found in dairy products are essential for maintaining healthy sleep patterns.Leafy Greens: Magnesium-Packed PowerhousesLeafy greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce are true sleep superstars, thanks to their high magnesium content. Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in regulating the bodys stress response and promoting muscle relaxation, both of which are essential for quality sleep. In fact, just one cup of cooked spinach packs an impressive 39% of the daily recommended magnesium intake. Incorporating these nutrient-dense greens into your diet can help combat the common sleep-disrupting issue of magnesium deficiency.Bananas: A Potassium-Rich Bedtime TreatBananas are more than just a convenient on-the-go snack theyre also a sleep-promoting powerhouse. Rich in tryptophan, magnesium, and potassium, bananas can help relax the body and muscles, reducing sleep disturbances and promoting a more restful nights sleep. The fruits natural sweetness also makes it a perfect pairing with milk or yogurt for a soothing bedtime treat that can lull you into a deep slumber.Honey: Natures Sleep-Enhancing NectarDrizzle a spoonful of honey into your bedtime tea or smoothie, and you may just find yourself drifting off to dreamland with ease. Honey has the unique ability to raise insulin levels in the body, which in turn triggers the production of melatonin, the sleep-regulating hormone. This natural sleep-boosting effect makes honey a valuable addition to any sleep-supporting bedtime routine.Chamomile Tea: A Centuries-Old Sleep RemedyChamomile tea has long been revered for its calming, sleep-promoting properties, and for good reason. The herb contains antioxidants that activate receptors in the brains GABA complex, providing a gentle sedative effect that can help you drift off to sleep. Sipping a warm cup of chamomile tea before bed is a simple yet effective way to wind down and prepare your body for a restful nights sleep.The Sleep-Disrupting Culprits to AvoidWhile incorporating these sleep-promoting superfoods into your diet is a great start, its also important to be mindful of the foods and drinks that can sabotage your sleep. Steer clear of caffeine, especially in the afternoon and evening, as it can interfere with your bodys natural sleep-wake cycle. Alcohol, despite its initial sedative effects, can ultimately disrupt sleep and reduce REM sleep. Spicy, acidic, and fried foods can also cause discomfort and acid reflux, making it difficult to fall and stay asleep. By focusing on a balanced, consistent diet rich in these sleep-enhancing foods, you can harness the power of nutrition to cultivate a more restful and rejuvenating slumber. Remember, while individual foods and drinks may offer sleep-promoting benefits, the true key to better sleep lies in adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses both your dietary habits and overall sleep hygiene. Sweet dreams await!
6 Simple Food Swaps for Better Health
Embarking on a journey towards better health doesnt always require drastic changes to your diet. Sometimes, its the small, thoughtful adjustments that can make a significant impact on your overall well-being. We understand that as you age, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet becomes increasingly important. Thats why weve compiled a list of six simple food swaps that can help boost your nutrition without overhauling your entire eating habits.1. Breakfast Cereal vs. Steel-Cut OatsIf you often find yourself reaching for a box of breakfast cereal in the morning, consider steel-cut oats as an alternative. Steel-cut oats, also known as Irish oats, are minimally processed oat groats that have been chopped into small pieces. This minimal processing means they retain more of their natural nutrients compared to their rolled or instant counterparts. Rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, steel-cut oats offer a hearty and satisfying breakfast option that can keep you feeling full and energized throughout the morning.2. Canned Tuna vs. Canned SalmonOne of the most significant advantages of choosing canned salmon over tuna is its higher content of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats play a crucial role in maintaining heart health, supporting brain function, and reducing inflammation throughout the body. Sockeye salmon, in particular, is an excellent source of these beneficial fats, providing more omega-3s per serving than most canned tuna varieties.3. Iceberg Lettuce vs. Dark Leafy GreensWhile iceberg lettuce seems to be popular at salad bars across the country, a simple swap for a healthier salad is using dark, leafy greens as a replacement. Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale and collard greens, contain 9 times more vitamin A than iceberg lettuce. Greens also contain healthy amounts of fiber, folate and potassium.4. Low-Fat Yogurt vs. SkyrSkyr (pronounced skeer) is a cultured dairy product that has been a staple in Icelandic cuisine for centuries. Its made by incubating skim milk with live active cultures, then straining the whey, resulting in a product thats thicker and more concentrated than regular yogurt.The nutritional benefits of Skyr are truly impressive, especially when compared to low-fat yogurt. Skyr contains up to 17 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving, which is significantly more than low-fat yogurt. Since Skyr is a cultured dairy product, it contains probiotics that support gut health. Lastly, its low in sugar, which is great for those who are monitoring their sugar intake.5. White Bread vs. Whole Grain BreadThere are many different types of breads available in super markets, but the two most common types are white bread and whole wheat. While they are both made from grains, there are some key differences between the two types. Whole grain bread is made from wheat that has all components of the grain, the bran, the germ, and the endosperm. This means that whole wheat bread contains the healthy fats, minerals, and fiber. White bread is made from refined flour, which goes through a milling process that removes the bran and germ. Therefor, white bread lacks a lot of the nutrient properties of whole grain bread.6. Potato Chips vs. Baked SnacksPotato chips are fried in oil, which gives them a delightful texture- but unfortunately, more calories and fat. Baked snacks like pretzels, air-popped popcorn or veggie chips are cooked without any inflammatory oils, but can be just as satisfying. As you embark on this journey of healthier eating, keep these final thoughts in mind: Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how these new foods make you feel. Everyones nutritional needs are different, so find what works best for you. Gradual Changes: Introduce these swaps gradually. This approach is more sustainable and allows your taste buds to adjust. Experiment and Enjoy: Dont be afraid to get creative with these new ingredients. Trying new recipes can make healthy eating an exciting adventure. Balance is Key: While these swaps offer nutritional benefits, remember that a balanced diet includes a variety of foods from all food groups. Consult Professionals: If you have specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, its always wise to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet. By making these thoughtful swaps, youre not just changing whats on your plate; youre investing in your long-term health and well-being. Each meal becomes an opportunity to nourish your body with foods that not only taste good but also do good for your health.
Local Services By This Author
Senior Care Authority - North Pittsburgh
Senior Transition Services 2009 Mackenzie Way Suite 100, Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, 16066Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the North Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of North Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Personal Care and Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Cara Lapic is a dedicated, highly motivated professional who loves finding solutions to challenges. She has spent almost thirty years in the corporate and academic world doing just that.During her tenure in the corporate world, life changed drastically - her father passed, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimers and she became a guardian to her sister, while at the same time dealing with a serious health issue herself. While learning to navigate the complex web of support services for her own family, she noticed her growing empathy for others needing to walk down the same road. Why not help them in their journey to make life as fulfilling as possible for their loved ones? She thought of no better way to move forward with her next chapter of work and giving back. She found Senior Care Authority could fulfill this desire for her.Caras education includes a BA in Business Administration, MS in Information Systems Management and a Doctorate in Information Systems and Communication. She has had robust training in Senior Care and has earned important certifications as a Certified Senior Advisor and Certified Dementia Practitioner. She has a national team of professionals to support her as she helps you navigate your options for your loved one. Cara is anxious to put her experience and training as a new owner of Senior Care Authority to work for you and your family today! She cant wait to meet you! Contact her for an initial consultation and see how she can make a difference for the senior in your life.
Senior Care Authority - Pittsburgh
Housing Placement & Resource Specialists 651 Holiday Drive, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15220Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered, and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Kathy Thompson is the owner of Senior Care Authority for the Pittsburgh area of Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. She became a Certified Senior Advisor to help families and seniors navigate the broad, confusing, and stressful decisions regarding senior living options. From her mothers fight with cancer, she has learned that life can change instantly. Her mission is to help families get the necessary resources and information they need in a timely fashion to be able to make the best educated decision for their elder parent or loved ones.Kathy understands that choosing the right senior care is a difficult decision, and she is here to help you every step of the way. Contact her for an initial consultation and see how she can make a difference for the senior in your life.
Senior Care Authority - North Pittsburgh
Housing Placement & Resource Specialists 2009 Mackenzie Way Suite 100, Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, 16066Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the North Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of North Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Personal Care and Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Cara Lapic is a dedicated, highly motivated professional who loves finding solutions to challenges. She has spent almost thirty years in the corporate and academic world doing just that.During her tenure in the corporate world, life changed drastically - her father passed, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimers and she became a guardian to her sister, while at the same time dealing with a serious health issue herself. While learning to navigate the complex web of support services for her own family, she noticed her growing empathy for others needing to walk down the same road. Why not help them in their journey to make life as fulfilling as possible for their loved ones? She thought of no better way to move forward with her next chapter of work and giving back. She found Senior Care Authority could fulfill this desire for her.Caras education includes a BA in Business Administration, MS in Information Systems Management and a Doctorate in Information Systems and Communication. She has had robust training in Senior Care and has earned important certifications as a Certified Senior Advisor and Certified Dementia Practitioner. She has a national team of professionals to support her as she helps you navigate your options for your loved one. Cara is anxious to put her experience and training as a new owner of Senior Care Authority to work for you and your family today! She cant wait to meet you! Contact her for an initial consultation and see how she can make a difference for the senior in your life.