Giving Back

What Type of In-Home Caregiver Do You Need?You think you or your loved one might need some help around the house, but youre not sure what. Youve done a bit of research, but the language can be confusing. Whats the difference between home care and home health care? What services does a companion provide? And most importantly, which services do you need?Each type of service, from companion care to skilled nursing care, caters to different needs and offers varying levels of support. Knowing the differences can help you make an informed decision thats best for your family. Heres a breakdown of the primary in-home caregiver services available.Companion Care (or Sitter Services)Companion care, sometimes known as sitter services, mainly provides companionship for seniors or individuals who do not require intensive medical care but may need supervision and light assistance. This service is ideal for those who wish to remain in their home and maintain a level of independence. Companion care helps ensure the individual is safe in their home and gets regular social interaction.Caregivers in this role engage in activities such as:          Conversation and companionship, including hobbies, games, and walks          Meal preparation and dining company          Light housekeeping Errand services, such as grocery shopping          Transportation to appointments or social events          Medication reminders Companion care is suitable for individuals who are mostly independent but may be at risk if left alone for long periods, such as those with early-stage dementia or limited mobility. Personal Care (or Home Care)Personal care professionals provide a more hands-on level of support, helping with the personal care of an individual. This service is often more generally called home care. These caregivers have more training than companion caregivers and can assist with the physical aspects of daily living. Their tasks typically include:          Bathing and personal hygiene          Dressing assistance          Mobility assistance          Incontinence care          More detailed medication management          Monitoring of vital signs under some circumstancesPersonal care is ideal for individuals who need regular assistance with personal care tasks but do not require medical intervention. Its a good fit for those with moderate disabilities or more advanced stages of age-related conditions. Home care visits are typically a minimum three-hour shift as often as needed up to 24/7 care and can continue as often as visits are needed.Nursing Care (Home Health Nurses)Nursing care at home is provided by registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). This type of care is necessary when an individual needs medical care at home, whether theyre recovering after a hospital stay or need help managing a chronic condition such as chronic lung or kidney disease.Home health nurses perform a range of medical tasks, including:         Wound care          Administering medications, including injections          Pain management          Medical equipment operation          Monitoring health status and adjusting care plans accordinglyNursing care is suited for individuals with significant medical needs that require professional health monitoring. Its commonly used for recovering from surgery, managing serious illnesses, or managing complex health conditions requiring regular medical attention. Home health visits are often intermittent and limited. They last until recovery goals are met or the health care provider certifies the visits can continue.How To Decide What Type of In-Home Care Is Best         Its common for care needs to cross over these categories. For example, someone who needs a nurses help managing their lung disease at home may also need the housework type help provided by a home care aide. Here are some additional thoughts to help with the decision:         Evaluate the individuals level of independence and medical needs. The person with lung disease may not need help around the house.         Consider the care recipients preferences and financial situation. Insurance (including Medicare/Medicaid) typically does not pay for in-home care or may pay only under limited circumstances.         Consult with health care professionals for tailored advice and guidance. What kind of care does the primary care physician recommend? Patients who are being discharged from a hospital or nursing home may also receive recommendations from the discharge staff.Remember, the goal for receiving care or assistance at home is to maintain the highest quality of life possible. If you are helping a loved one or friend decide on care, respect their wishes and needs as they age or recover in the comfort of their own home.Questions To Ask When Considering In Home Care Providers         As you research in-home care options, ask each provider these questions to ensure the company is reputable and will provide exceptional, quality care:         Are Social Security, federal and state taxes, and unemployment insurance paid? Are the caregivers bonded/insured? Are workers compensation and professional liability insurance paid? A trustworthy company will pay the taxes and insurance for its caregivers, so you are protected from legal and financial responsibility.         Is the required state licensing up to date? Have all caregivers undergone background checks, including references and criminal records?         Are supervisory home visits conducted to verify that quality care is being provided?Asking these questions will help sort out which providers have a good reputation and are highly regarded in the community, and which do not have these qualities. Above all else, ensure that dependable, quality care will be provided by people you can trust. Question, please contact Right at Home 970-494-1111.

                                                     PRESS RELEASE:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              C.J. Girod                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     President                                                                                                                                    412-944-2470                                                                                                                      Info@swpaSeniorCare.com                                                                                 National Caregivers Day: Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Services Offers Advice for Keeping Caregivers Healthy Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA President C.J. Girod is placing a spotlight on advice and insights for keeping caregivers healthy for National Caregivers Day on February 21st.  PITTSBURGH, PA  Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care services, a franchisor with over 180 franchise partners with more than 350 territories nationwide, has grown rapidly in recent years by building a workforce of talented caregivers who create meaningful relationships with their senior care clients. These individuals build meaningful connections with the seniors they assist, enriching lives through personalized care. On February 21, in recognition of National Caregivers Day, Seniors Helping Seniors services is celebrating the caregivers whose unwavering commitment has solidified the brand as a trusted leader in in-home care."Caregivers are the heart of our mission, playing a vital role in bringing comfort, care, and joy to countless lives," said Namrata Yocom-Jan, Seniors Helping Seniors president.National Caregivers Day is celebrated nationally every third Friday in February. It was established in 2015 by Providers Association for Home Health & Hospice Agencies (PAHHHA).  Family members serve as the primary caregivers for most older adults and individuals with disabilities in the U.S. Recognizing this reality, Seniors Helping Seniors network has expanded nationwide, offering family caregivers a chance to transform their dedication and passion into rewarding career opportunities. At the same time, the brand provides much-needed support to family caregivers, helping alleviate caregiver burnout challenges. Our senior caregivers are the backbone of what we do and an invaluable part of our franchise, said C.J. Girod, President of Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA. They bring joy and comfort to seniors by delivering compassionate care and assistance with daily tasks that become more difficult with age. By supporting our caregivers as much as our clients, we create a community that thrives on empathy and mutual respect. Nearly half of caregivers in the U.S. are over the age of 50, putting them at increased risk of health challenges. To address this, Seniors Helping Seniors services, which focuses on hiring seniors (individuals over the age of 65) as caregivers, offers extensive support to promote the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of its team members.Weve worked hard to ensure that Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care is not just the best choice for our clients but also a fulfilling opportunity for caregivers nationwide, Girod said. This commitment is something were incredibly proud of, and we remain dedicated to creating a supportive environment where anyone with the passion and skills to provide exceptional care can thrive. Our caregivers truly embody the spirit of giving and receiving.  ABOUT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS Seniors Helping Seniors franchise system was founded by husband-and-wife duo Kiran and Philip Yocom. Kiran, who grew up in India, later worked to advance humanitarian efforts alongside Mother Teresa. After moving to the U.S. in 1995 and marrying her husband Philip, the Yocoms felt called to provide loving care to seniors and to cultivate an exchange of gifts at every generational level. Together, the Yocoms founded Seniors Helping Seniors in-home services in 1998, opening the brand up to franchising in 2006. With a mission to be the most respected and rewarding homecare provider in the U.S., Seniors Helping Seniors locations stands apart from competitors as the only company that prioritizes hiring active seniors to provide care services to their less-active counterparts. Seniors Helping Seniors service aligns caregivers and care recipients based on the abilities and needs of both by offering a wide range of care services. Seniors Helping Seniors network has grown to has grown to 300-plus locations, and over 180 franchise partners in 35-plus states and international markets. For more information on Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care, visit https://seniorshelpingseniors.com/.

Inspiring Seniors Who Are Redefining What It Means to AgeYouve got to get to the stage in life where going for it is more important than winning or losing. Arthur AsheAging is not a limitation; its an opportunity to embrace life with wisdom, experience, and newfound purpose. Theres a survival benefit to resilience, Dr. Susan Friedman, director of geriatrics and aging at the University of Rochester School of Medicine told AARP. People can reframe their situation and make the best of it.Making the best of things, particularly as seniors age and live with a serious or chronic condition, is the message of AARP National Geographics Second Half of Life study. Given the rise in popularity of older influencers (aka granfluencers) on social media, younger generations (were looking at you, Millennials and Gen Z) are taking in their lessons of aging well and adopting their attitude that age is just a number.Members of our professional teams at Amada Senior Care franchise offices around the country have had the honor of witnessing countless older adults who shatter stereotypes and redefine what it means to grow older. Their stories inspire us all and challenge the outdated notions of aging as a period of decline.Who Are Super Agers?Super agers are individuals aged 80 and older who exhibit cognitive and physical abilities on par with people decades younger. Studies have shown that super agers often have thicker brain regions related to memory and attention, which helps them maintain sharpness as they age. These remarkable seniors prioritize mental and physical health, often engaging in challenging mental activities, staying socially connected, and leading physically active lives. Their resilience and commitment to lifelong growth serve as an inspiration for all generations.Embracing Lifelong LearningMany seniors are proving that curiosity and the desire to learn never fade with age. Take, for example, 75-year-old Marcia, who decided to pursue her lifelong dream of earning a degree in art history. Not only did she graduate with honors, but she also inspired her grandchildren to value education and chase their dreams fearlessly.Seniors like Marcia remind us that its never too late to start something new. More inspiration comes from famous lifelong learners like artist-scientist-sculptor Leonardo da Vinci and mother of modern physics and two-time Nobel Prize winner Marie Curie.Breaking Barriers in Health and FitnessAge is just a number for individuals like Harold, an 82-year-old marathon runner who competes in events worldwide. Harolds commitment to physical fitness and healthy living serves as a beacon of hope for others looking to prioritize their well-being.With tailored exercise routines and proper guidance, seniors can defy physical limitations and enjoy an active, vibrant lifestyle. In the news is Gwen McFarlan, a world-record-holder runner at 89 years old, who plans on running her 26th full marathon next year at age 90.Giving Back to the CommunityRetirement doesnt mean stepping away from purpose. For 68-year-old Eleanor, it marked the beginning of her philanthropic journey. After retiring from a successful career in education, she launched a community tutoring program to help underserved children improve their literacy skills. Her efforts have touched countless lives, proving that the golden years can be a time of giving back and making a difference.A lifelong philanthropist, investor Warren Buffet gives millions to foundations each year at during the Thanksgiving season, and instructed his children to distribute the rest of his holdings upon his death. He has encouraged fellow millionaires and billionaires to donate at least half of their wealth.Redefining CreativityA study by the National Endowment for the Arts found that seniors who made art or crafts and attended cultural arts events in tests showed higher cognitive functioning abilities, along with lower rates of hypertension.From painting to writing memoirs, seniors are exploring their creative sides in inspiring ways. At 103 years old, Louis continues to explore his passion for woodworking. His work has not only brought him joy but also provided a meaningful way to stay connected with his community.Building Strong ConnectionsStaying socially active is a cornerstone of aging well. Seniors who cultivate strong relationships and participate in group activities often report higher levels of happiness and fulfillment. Whether its joining a book club, attending dance classes, or traveling with friends, seniors are finding innovative ways to stay engaged and connected.Barriers to Aging WellWhile the opportunities for thriving in later years are abundant, some barriers can make aging challenging. Common obstacles include: Health Issues: Chronic illnesses, limited mobility, and cognitive decline can impact quality of life. Social Isolation: Loneliness is a significant concern for many seniors, especially those who live alone or far from family. Financial Constraints: Limited income or savings can restrict access to healthcare, nutritious food, and recreational activities. Access to Resources: Lack of transportation, inadequate community programs, or difficulty navigating technology can hinder seniors from staying engaged and supported. Addressing these barriers is critical to ensuring that all seniors have the opportunity to age with dignity and purpose. Support networks, including family, caregivers, and community organizations, play a vital role in overcoming these challenges.Aging in Place with SupportWhile independence is important, aging successfully often involves seeking the right support. At Amada Senior Care, we understand the value of compassionate care that empowers seniors to live their best lives. From personalized care plans to community resources, our mission is to help seniors embrace this chapter with confidence and dignity.Celebrate the Possibilities of AgingAging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength. Betty FriedanAging at its best is about seeing the possibilities instead of the limitations. Its about finding joy in the journey, continuing to learn, and leaving a legacy that inspires future generations. To the seniors redefining what it means to grow olderwe salute you. Your stories remind us that aging is not an end but a beginning of new opportunities to thrive.Lets celebrate the achievements and contributions of seniors around us. If you or a loved one are looking for ways to embrace aging with support and inspiration, were here to help. Together, we can redefine what it means to age well.  Contact Amada Senior Care serving Baldwin & Mobile Counties at 251-305-4500 for in-home caregiving, financial care coordination, and finding senior living.