Honoring Wisdom – Celebrate the Contributions of Seniors

Its a new year, and that means most of us are thinking about making healthy changes. Whether you call them resolutions or not, its only natural to see this time as a perfect moment for reflecting on our health and working toward better habits. For many older adults, however, the fitness gear ads, trendy at-home workouts, and discounted gym memberships feel like theyre geared toward someone elsethat is, a much younger audience. Unfortunately, only 12.7% of people 65 or older get enough physical activity in their lives. Exercise for seniors can feel out of reach for many reasons, from health problems to mobility concerns. But it doesnt have to. There are plenty of ways to get and stay active when youre aging in place. Lets talk about some of the ways that seniors can get moving safely and improve their overall health!The Many Benefits of Exercise for SeniorsExercise has been touted as a wonder drugeven the New York Times has said as much. Even light exercise has a bevy of benefits, from improving longevity to managing chronic conditions. Getting regular physical activity can help older adults maintain their ability to perform activities of daily living, prevent illnesses and health conditions like heart disease, and improve overall quality of life. Lets take a look at some of the top reasons people over 65 shouldnt throw in the towel on fitness.Improved cardiovascular healthEnhanced strength and flexibilityWeight managementJoint healthBalance and coordinationChronic disease managementIncreased longevityBoosted mood and mental healthImproved sleep3 Exercises for Seniors of Any Age & AbilityEach of these exercises can be great for older adults. Remember to always start with a warmup,  listen to your body, and take breaks as needed. It's important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you get stronger.Sample Warm-up (5 minutes):Gentle neck rolls: Slowly roll your head in a circular motion, five times forward and five times backward.Arm circles: Extend your arms out to the sides and make small circles forward and backward, 10 times each direction.Ankle circles: Sit or stand holding onto a chair for support. Make small circles with your feet, 10 times clockwise and 10 times counterclockwise.Balance Exercises for SeniorsTo reduce the risk of falls, improving balance becomes increasingly important as we age. Thankfully, several simple yet effective exercises can help seniors improve their stability and prevent falls. Here's an example of a fun and engaging balancing exercise routine for seniors:Single-leg stand: Hold onto a chair or wall for support if needed. From a standing position, lift one leg off the ground and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat on the other side. Gradually increase the hold time as you get stronger. Heel-toe walk: Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart. Take a step forward, placing your heel where your toes were from the previous step. Continue walking in this heel-toe fashion for 10-15 steps, then turn and repeat in the other direction. Marching in place: Lift your knees high as you march in place, keeping your core engaged and your back straight. Do this for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Chair Exercises for SeniorsChair exercises offer a fantastic way for seniors to keep their bodies moving and improve their overall health and well-being, all from the comfort of their own homes. Remember to use a sturdy chair, listen to your body, and take breaks as needed.Bicep curls: Sit tall at the edge of the chair. Hold a lightweight object (water bottles or soup cans work well) in each hand. Bend your elbows, bringing the weights towards your shoulders, then slowly lower them back down. Repeat 10-12 times. Shoulder shrugs: Raise your shoulders up towards your ears, hold for a second, then relax. Repeat 10-12 times. Heel raises: Sit with your feet flat on the floor. Lift your heels off the ground, squeezing your calf muscles. Hold for a second, then lower them back down. Repeat 10-12 times. Leg extensions: Sit tall with your legs extended straight out in front of you. Slowly lift one leg up as high as you comfortably can, hold for a second, then lower it back down. Repeat 10-12 times per leg. Core Exercises for SeniorsIf you havent heard by now, crunches are OUT. Instead, try these three core exercises recommended by a Harvard-affiliated physical therapist to build strength in the abdomen, back, and pelvis area.Bridges: This exercise is perfect for beginners or those with limitations. Simply lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Push through your heels and squeeze your glutes to lift your hips off the ground until your body forms a straight line. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower back down.Knee Plank: This is the most beginner-friendly type of plank. Keep your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Engage your core and draw your belly button towards your spine to maintain a straight line from your head to your knees. Hold for as long as you comfortably can, starting with 10-15 seconds.Bird-dog (a.k.a. Opposite leg and arm raise): Start on all fours with your hands shoulder-width apart and knees hip-width apart. Keep your back flat and core engaged as you extend one arm forward and the opposite leg back, keeping them parallel to the floor. Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting position and repeat on the other side.Need Help with Healthy Aging in Place? Consider In-Home CareBefore starting any new exercise routine, you should always consult your doctor and keep your well-being top of mind. If you or your loved one has limited mobility, has been diagnosed with dementia, or has other conditions that might make finding the right wellness routine challenging, now might be the time to consider at-home senior care.ComForCares senior caregivers can take care of tasks around the home that they may no longer be able to safely accomplish on their own. They can also help seniors manage chronic conditions, provide medication reminders, and perform home safety checks to ensure a safe environment. As part of their comprehensive companionship, personal care, and wellness services, they can tailor a plan to your or your loved ones needs. That could include helping navigate fitness options, coordinating talks with healthcare providers about exercise, and being there during exercise to ensure safety.Choose ComForCare: Americas Choice for In-Home Senior CareWith over 200 locations in North America, ComForCare is dedicated to person-centered care for older adults. Our flexible services can easily adapt to your familys needs, from light assistance to around-the-clock care. Help your loved one live their best life possible when you choose ComForCare. Reach out today to learn more about our services and find your perfect caregiver!

As our loved ones age, it can become increasingly difficult for them to live independently. This is especially true for veterans, who may have unique health needs related to their service. Fortunately, there are resources available to help veterans and their families navigate the challenges of aging and stay at home longer with home care services. Only a fraction of veterans or their spouses take advantage of their VA benefits to help pay for the cost of senior care. Many dont realize that these funds are available, and still others have trouble navigating the often confusing and time-consuming process of applying and qualifying for these funds.At ComForCare, were dedicated to helping older adults remain happily at home for as long as possible. Lets discuss everything families need to know about veteran home care and how to get the benefits they deserve.Understanding Veteran Home Care Benefits: Your Questions AnsweredWhat is Veteran Home Care?Many veterans know that they can have home healthcare services covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. However, did you know you can also qualify for help paying for non-medical home care services? Sometimes known as companion care or homemaker services, this type of assistance helps veterans live at home for longer. With an in-home care service, experienced caregivers help older adults with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as:EatingDressingPersonal groomingBathingUsing the bathroomGrocery shopping & home choresMobility (sitting, standing, walking, etc.)At ComForCare, going above and beyond is par for the course: our caregivers develop real relationships with their clients, providing much more than basic services alone. Were in the business of making a difference in the lives of older adults, becoming an active, meaningful part of their overall care and well-being.What Benefits Are Available to Veterans to Help Pay for Senior Care?There are many sources of VA funds to help seniors cover the cost of care, including the VHA Standard Medicaid Benefits Package. Lets talk about two of the main benefit programs available to veterans that you may not know about: the Aid & Attendance Pension Program and the Veteran-Directed Care Program. Aid & Attendance Pension ProgramDesigned to supplement the cost of long-term care for veterans and surviving spouses, this program is ideal for veterans already receiving a pension. As long as a veteran has reached the age of 65 and/or has at least two ADLs (help with bathing, dressing, etc.), they can qualify. Aid and Attendance benefits and the Housebound allowance provide extra income to a VA pension to help pay for care. Up to $2,050 per month for single veteransUp to $2,431 for married veteransUp to $1,318 for surviving spousesUp to $3,253 for two married veteransAdditional income and asset limits do apply, though these can have complex caveats. Veteran-Directed Care ProgramThe Veteran-Directed Care program offers a budget for approved senior care services, rather than a direct increase in pension. With the help of a counselor, veterans manage this budget and choose their own providers. There are no age, asset, or income limits to this benefitthe veteran simply must qualify for home and community-based services. With this program, veterans and their spouses can choose to spend their benefit money on services such as:Personal care servicesCompanion careRespite care for family caregiversChore servicesHomemaker and home health servicesWho is Eligible for Veteran Home Care?Overall criteria depend on the source of funding. For example, the Aid & Attendance benefit has stricter requirements than the Veteran-Directed Care Program. Eligible individuals:Are U.S. veterans who are 65+ or 100% disabledServed at least 90 days of active military duty (after training)Served at least one day of active military duty during a period of war (WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf)Received an honorable, medical, or general dischargeNeed another person to help you perform daily activities or are bed-boundAre a surviving spouse of a veteran who meets these criteria (if they have not remarried)These guidelines are general, and additional requirements, such as asset and income limits, may apply. However, if you believe you or your family member meets the above criteria, dont give up hope if you run into problems with these net worth limits. The team at ComForCare can help you navigate these nuances and find out which programs you are eligible for. Were here to ensure that you arent leaving money on the table when it comes to in-home senior care!Get Help Maneuvering Through the VA SystemToo many veterans dont get the help they need because they either dont realize these benefits are available to them or get overwhelmed in the application process. Receiving your benefits can feel like an uphill battle, but you are not alone. At ComForCare, were proud to serve veterans, helping them confirm their eligibility, gather the necessary documentation, and navigate the VA system. If you or a loved one needs assistance to continue living at home safely, talk to ComForCare today for personalized guidance! Let us match you with your perfect caregiver today.Choose ComForCare: Here to Help Veterans Get the Home Care Services They DeserveAt ComForCare, were on a mission to help older adults live their best life possible while aging safely at home. Our teams are made of passionate caregivers who are ready to prioritize your loved ones well-being. Dont let confusing processes or unclear eligibility criteria stop your loved one from affording the care they deserve. Get in touch with us today to see how ComForCare can help your family!

As individuals age, they often face challenges that impact their independence and overall well-being, many of which arent medical in nature. After all, maintaining social connections, engaging in activities, and receiving assistance with daily tasks are all essential for a fulfilling life. Companion care services offer valuable support by providing genuine connections and assistance tailored to the unique needs of seniors. In this guide, we explore what companion care is, its benefits, and how it can enhance the lives of older adults and their families.Your Guide to Companion ServicesWhat is Companion Care?Companion care involves providing non-medical assistance to seniors who may require support with various aspects of daily living. Companion care is unique from other forms of long-term care, many of which focus primarily on physical assistance. For example, home health aides typically assist with skilled nursing tasks like wound care and specialized forms of therapy.In addition to helping with any mobility and personal care needs a person may need, companion care also emphasizes social interaction, emotional support, and meaningful relationships.Home companion care offers a range of services, including:Social Support: Spending time with seniors through conversations, games, walks, or accompanying them to social events.Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Helping with tasks such as light housekeeping, grocery shopping, meal preparation, medication reminders, and transportation to doctor appointments.Emotional Support: Providing a listening ear, offering encouragement, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being.Safety and Supervision: Monitoring the environment for potential hazards and ensuring safety at home.Benefits of Companion Care ServicesHome care services like companion care offer numerous benefits for seniors and their families. Having a caregiver visit the home can not only help older adults continue to live independently but also help them truly thrive in their retirement years.Reduced Loneliness and IsolationMany seniors experience lonelinessin fact, the CDC estimates that 1 in every 3 adults over 45 feels lonely, and 1 in 4 adults over 65 is considered socially isolated. Loneliness is a major health concern for seniors, increasing their risk for premature death, dementia, heart disease, and depression.These risks are compounded if a person lives alone or has limited social interactions. Companion caregivers provide meaningful interactions that foster emotional connections and reduce feelings of isolationincluding their negative outcomes.Improved Mental Well-beingRegular social interaction and engaging activities have a positive impact on mental health. Companion care promotes cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and a sense of purpose, which can help seniors maintain a positive outlook on life.Enhanced Quality of LifeBy assisting with daily tasks and building real relationships with their clients, companion caregivers enable seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life. Older adults can continue living comfortably in their homes, surrounded by familiar surroundings and cherished memories.If you or your loved one are trying to decide between continuing to live at home or assisted living, companion care could be the ideal solution. In many cases, it can be the best of both worlds: social support and physical care without sacrificing the comfort and dignity of home.Peace of Mind for FamiliesKnowing that a loved one is receiving personalized care and companionship can alleviate stress and worry for family members. Companion caregivers provide regular updates and ensure that seniors' needs are met, allowing families to focus on enjoying the quality time they spend together.Customized Care PlansCompanion care services are tailored to the individual needs and preferences of each individual. Care plans are flexible and can be adjusted as the persons requirements change over time, ensuring that they receive the support they need in every circumstance.Is Companion Care Right for You? Your Questions AnsweredCompanion care goes beyond simply assisting with tasks; it enriches seniors' lives in numerous ways. Of course, its natural to have questions! Lets cover some of the basics.How much does companion care cost?The cost of companion care varies depending on location, hours needed, and the specific services provided. It's generally less expensive than in-home health care and residential senior living. At ComForCare, we are dedicated to helping families connect with the services they need. We put flexible, customizable care and a wealth of resources at your fingertips to help find the right care for your loved one and budget.Does Medicare cover companion care?Medicare generally does not cover companion care. Medicare focuses on medical care, while companion care provides non-medical assistance like companionship, light housekeeping, and errands.However, if your loved one or their spouse is a veteran, they may be eligible for home care benefits through VA programs. Is a doctor's referral needed for companion care?No, a doctor's referral is not required for companion care services. Anyone who believes they can benefit from this service is welcome and encouraged to speak to a member of the ComForCare team for more information!How can I find a qualified companion caregiver for my loved one?Many home care agencies can place companion caregivers, but at ComForCare, we truly specialize in caregiver matching. That means we go the extra mile to pair your loved one with a caregiver who will match them as closely as possible in personality, background, interests, and care abilities.We welcome you to research ComForCare on trusted online directories or find your nearest location to learn more. Each of our 200+ local offices has strong ties to the community they serve and is happy to provide any information you need to make a decision.Find Your Loved Ones Ideal Companion Caregiver TodayCompanion care services play a vital role in supporting the well-being and independence of seniors. Whether it's sharing a conversation, enjoying a meal together, or simply being there to offer a listening ear, companion caregivers make a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors every day. If you or a loved one could benefit from companion care services, reach out to ComForCare to explore the options available in your area!ComForCare: Providing Companionship for Seniors Since 1996ComForCare is proud to serve seniors and their families throughout North America. Whether your loved one needs help combatting loneliness, living at home safely, or managing dementia, we have a caregiver to meet your needs. Reach out today to start your journey toward meaningful in-home care!