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Seniors have earned their safety net of Social Security and Medicare, but to truly thrive they need to move beyond the well-planned life to add something unexpected: personal risk. It’s one of the oddest twists of modern society – Americans spend most of their lives being encouraged to work hard to do difficult things. As soon as we hit a certain age, though, it’s all about easing up and backing off.
Grandma, take a break! Give it a rest, Grandpa! You don’t want to chance a fall there!
The problem is, we’ve become so preoccupied with surplus safety at all times for seniors that we have stripped away too many of the surprises and unexpected twists that make life worth living. Is it any wonder that seniors now are battling an epidemic of boredom, depression, and loneliness?
Few people of any age find meaning and purpose in doing the same thing, at the same time, in the same way, every day. We need to mix it up and try something new – a physical challenge, a different setting, a new learned skill. As a career nurse and chief executive of a complete senior health company, I know that the only risk-free environment is a coffin. No point rushing our way into there.
One of the best solutions to bring risk to seniors is to borrow an idea from the younger generations. Seniors should go gaming. No, grandparents may not want to take up Minecraft, Fortnite, or Call of Duty. (Though if they want to try it, by all means, go for it.) I’m also not a big fan of one traditional eldergame, namely, bingo, which is too much about luck and not enough about skill and performance mastery as a source of motivation. There is little in bingo that offers true risks or competition to benefit others. The better games promote the physical and mental skills that can go unexercised as people grow older.
For families and friends, an excellent plan is to tap into the data collected by Apple watches and Fitbit-style fitness trackers. How many steps a day can you record? How many days a week can you record steps that meet your goal? Instead of making it an individual competition, we see better gains – and more fun overall – when people are assigned to a team. A team competition makes you responsible to others, not just yourself. It’s human nature to push yourself harder when others are relying on you. Maybe the team is made up of family and loved ones. Maybe it’s friends and neighbors. The overall goal is to get everyone accountable – and moving.
In our own health business, we have 1,000 seniors, aged 60s to 100 and up, who compete in Spark Performances, which include an annual TRY-athlon Tournament, a remote-control National Forklift Racing League, and The Grip Games. There also is the Spark Challenge, where community teams battle for the league championship using walkers, stationary bikes, and arm cranks. Every week the 32 teams in the league tune in to The Really Big Show, an ESPN-style Sports Center wrapup that features results and league standings. Established powerhouse teams are the Dragonflies, Cardinals, and River Rats. The competition is fueled by a $32,000 tournament purse.
Of course, not everyone can do the more physically demanding tasks – though a 95-year-old is one of our leading hallway runners – but every team has a place for someone, including coaches, statisticians, and cheerleaders. How is it safe to have great-grandmothers running down hallways in walkers? The truth is, it’s not completely safe. But that’s the point. And it’s also really fun. A few weeks ago, an 80+ woman was competing in the hallway run when she slipped, fell, and cut her knee.
In the emergency room, the doctor asked her how the injury happened. “I fell in a triathlon,” she replied. The doctor thought she was joking — until the woman asked to be patched up as quickly as possible, so she could complete her remaining two events. She was extremely proud and definitely adamant — she really, really did not want to let down her team. What she saw was a chance to win. What our medical team saw was strength, purpose, and belonging.
Whether in a senior community or in life, aging is a team sport. As our years go up, we depend more on others to reach our goals. Our team may include family, friends, medical professionals, or even a fellow hallway racer on a walker. We’ll do better together, if only we take that risk to challenge our minds and bodies with something new.
Joel Theisen, BSN, RN, is founder and chief executive of
Lifespark, a Minnesota- based complete senior health company. Follow him on
Twitter: @Lifespark_CEO.
Why After-Hospital Care at Home is Key to a Safe & Speedy Recovery for Grand Junction, Colorado SeniorsRecovering after a hospital stay? Learn how post-hospital home care supports a safe, smooth recovery, reduces complications, and prevents readmission. Discover the benefits of after-hospital care at home. Leaving the hospital is a significant step in your recovery, but the healing process doesnt stop there. Proper after-hospital care at home is essential for a smooth recovery, reducing the risk of complications and hospital readmission. In fact, research indicates that people receiving home healthcare services have a considerably lower risk of being readmitted to the hospital within 30 days compared to those who do not receive such care; this reduction can be as high as 60% in some studies. Keep reading to discover why post-hospital home care is crucial and how it can support a faster, safer return to daily life for seniors and other adults in Grand Junction and the surrounding Colorado communities.What is Post Hospital Care in Grand Junction?After-hospital carealso known as post-hospital care, transitional care, in-home recovery care, or post-hospital home carerefers to the support seniors and other adults need after being discharged from the hospital to ensure a safe and smooth recovery at home.After surgery or a hospital stay, many individuals prefer to recover at home, where they feel most comfortable. However, since they are still in the healing process, its essential to follow their doctors recommendations closely to regain strength. Depending on their condition, they may need additional support for a short period or several months.Every situation is different, which means that every person's in-home recovery care needs will be different. Transitional care services can include a wide variety of services, such as:Assistance with implementing the patients recovery planCoordination with medical staffMedication remindersPersonal careCompanionshipTransportationLight HousekeepingRespiteFamily members often step in to help with in-home recovery care, and in some cases, their support may be enough. However, professional transitional care is often necessary to ensure a safe and smooth recovery. If loved ones lack the time, skills, or energy to provide proper care, hiring an in-home recovery professional can be the best way to promote healing, prevent complications, and support a faster return to daily life.The Benefits of Post-Hospital Home Care in Grand JunctionPost-hospital home care doesnt just make a patients life easier; it has been scientifically proven to improve recovery outcomes. The benefits of post-hospital home care include:Comfort of home. Most people prefer to recover in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by loved ones in a familiar setting. A 2018 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people who received in-home recovery care experienced significantly less stress than those who remained in the hospital for an extended period.Personalization. Everyone has unique needs after a hospital stay, and at-home care allows for greater personalization than hospital-based recovery. Unlike hospitals, transitional care services are not restricted by schedules, staffing, or resource limitations. This flexibility enables patients to receive fully customized care tailored to their routines, preferences, and recovery plans.Safety. Recovery is a critical phase of healing, and post-hospital home care significantly improves the chances of a safe and smooth recovery. In-home care ensures that patients receive the supervision needed to follow their doctors recovery plan while reducing risks such as falls, infections, and medication errors. Transitional care professionals can provide medication reminders, assist with hygiene, and support daily living activities to enhance safety.Independence. Recovering at home empowers seniors and other adults to take an active role in their healing process. With support from a family member or professional caregiver, patients maintain more control over their daily lives. As their health improves, they can gradually resume more tasks on their own, fostering a sense of independence and autonomy.Community. Hospital stays can feel isolating, but at-home recovery allows patients to stay connected with friends and family. Without hospital visitation restrictions, loved ones can visit freely, and with transportation assistance, patients can continue participating in social activities aligned with their recovery plan.Cost-effectiveness. Hospital bills add up quickly, especially for extended stays. In contrast, post-hospital home care is significantly more affordable while providing greater comfort. Hiring a professional for transitional care services costs only a fraction of what a prolonged hospital stay would.Improved recovery outcomes. The greatest advantage of post-hospital home care is improved recovery. A 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that in-home recovery care not only speeds up healing but also lowers the risk of infection. Additionally, the AMA found that patients receiving post-hospital care at home are 44% less likely to be readmitted to the hospital.Simply put, in-home post-hospital care is often the best choice following a surgery or illness, and professional transitional care services can help your family make sure your loved ones needs are met. How to Prepare for After Hospital Care at HomeBefore beginning after hospital care at home, you should make a few simple preparations for yourself or your loved one.Follow these steps to build the proper infrastructure for in-home recovery care:Consult with the patients doctor about their recovery plan.Make plans for the patients transportation from the hospital to home.Clean and organize the home.Purchase and set up any necessary equipment, like shower railings.Consider the patients nutrition needs and dietary restrictions and plan meals accordingly.Prepare a schedule for any prescribed medications.Address any limitations to mobility or daily living activities. Consider hiring an in-home post-hospital care agency, like the friendly, knowledgeable team at Comfort Keepers.Enjoy a Smooth, Safe Recovery with Comfort Keepers Grand JunctionComfort Keepers Grand Junction is a post-hospital home care provider in Colorados Western Slope. Our transitional care services are designed to provide patients with the support they need to get back on their feet as soon as possible.Our agency provides in-home senior care services to seniors and other adults in Grand Junction, Redlands, Clifton, Fruita, Palisade, Whitewater, Gateway, Orchard Mesa, Appleton, Loma, Glade Park, Fruitville, Glenwood Springs, Battlement Mesa, Parachute, and Rifle, Colorado. When you choose Comfort Keepers Grand Junction, you and your loved ones can benefit from:Experienced, compassionate caregiversPersonalized recovery plansEnhanced home safetyHelp with transportation, light housekeeping, and errandsMedication remindersAssistance with daily living activities, like bathing, dressing, and mobilityPeace of mind knowing that your loved ones are taken care of by professionalsAt Comfort Keepers, our clients are more than just clients; they are family. We care for the seniors in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray, and Garfield counties like they are our own loved ones, incorporating time-tested best practices alongside cutting-edge techniques.Contact Comfort Keepers Grand Junction today to learn how our post-hospital home care services in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray, and Garfield counties can support a safe, smooth recovery call today to ask how, 970-241-8818.
How does your home care business run its marketing efforts?A successful home care marketing funnel helps attract potential clients, guide them through decision-making, and turn them into loyal advocates. The marketing funnel for home care businesses typically follows four key steps: Awareness, Consideration, Decision (Conversion), and Advocacy (Retention & Referrals). Heres how you can implement each step effectively.1. AwarenessWhat is it?At this stage, potential clients first learn about your home care services. This could be through online searches, word of mouth, or community events.Goal:Introduce your home care services to potential clients and their families.Strategies to Achieve Awareness: Local SEO Optimization Ensure your Google My Business profile and directory listings are up to date. Social Media Marketing Regularly post on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to engage potential clients. Content Marketing Share blogs, videos, and senior care guides to educate and attract attention. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Ads Target families searching for home care services. Community Engagement Attend or host local events, networking opportunities, and partnerships to build trust within the community. 2. ConsiderationWhat is it?Potential clients are now comparing their options and evaluating whether your services fit their needs.Goal:Build trust and educate potential clients about your services.Strategies to Achieve Consideration: Testimonials & Case Studies Showcase positive experiences from past clients. Free Consultations or Assessments Offer in-home evaluations to build trust. Webinars and Live Q&As Educate families about home care options. Email Nurturing Campaigns Send helpful guides and answers to common concerns. Comparison Guides Provide easy-to-read comparisons between home care vs. assisted living or private caregivers vs. agencies. 3. Decision (Conversion)What is it?This is when prospects make their final decision and choose your home care services over competitors.Goal:Convert leads into paying clients.Strategies to Achieve Conversion: Strong Calls-to-Action (CTAs) Ensure your website, social media, and ads clearly direct visitors to contact you. Easy Contact Options Provide phone, chat, and form submissions for quick communication. Transparent Pricing and Service Details Make it easy for families to understand their options. Personalized Follow-Ups A care coordinator should connect personally with leads. Trial Periods or Flexible Care Plans Reduce hesitation by offering trial services or customized plans. 4. Advocacy (Retention & Referrals)What is it?Once clients experience great care, they can become loyal advocates who refer others and leave positive reviews.Goal:Turn satisfied clients into brand advocates who help grow your reputation.Strategies to Achieve Advocacy: Client Satisfaction Surveys Gather feedback to improve services and show you care. Referral Programs Offer incentives for happy clients who recommend your services. Regular Check-ins Stay in touch with families to ensure ongoing satisfaction. Encourage Online Reviews Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp. Engagement with Past Clients Keep in touch via newsletters, community events, and support groups. A well-structured home care marketing funnel is essential for attracting potential clients, building trust, and turning them into loyal advocates. By focusing on Awareness, Consideration, Decision, and Advocacy, you can create a seamless journey that connects families with the right care solutions.At Seniors Blue Book, we help home care providers increase visibility and connect with the right audience through our trusted platform. A free listing gives you instant exposure, while our upgraded options take your marketing to the next level.Dont let your services go unnoticedget listed today and start reaching families in need. Contact us at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or call 800-201-9989 to learn more!
Finding the right home care provider for your loved one is a big decisionone that impacts their well-being, safety, and overall happiness. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to navigate through agencies, independent caregivers, and specialized services.But dont worry! This guide will walk you through the essential steps to finding the perfect match for your loved ones unique needs while ensuring peace of mind for you and your family. Step 1: Assess Your Loved Ones NeedsBefore beginning your search, take the time to assess exactly what your loved one requires. Ask yourself:Do they need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation?Are they experiencing memory loss that may require specialized dementia care?Do they have medical conditions that need nursing assistance?Would they benefit from companionship and social interaction?Make a list of non-negotiables so you can match their needs with the right home care provider. Step 2: Understand the Different Types of Home Care ServicesHome care isnt one-size-fits-all. There are different types of services available, including:Personal Care Services (help with bathing, grooming, toileting, and mobility assistance)Companion Care (companionship, transportation, light housekeeping)Skilled Nursing Care (medication management, wound care, injections) Specialized Care (Alzheimers/dementia care, hospice support) Knowing the difference will help you choose a provider that offers exactly what your loved one needs. Step 3: Research Potential Home Care ProvidersNot all home care agencies are created equal, so its crucial to do your homework. Start by: Reading online reviews from other families Asking for recommendations from doctors, friends, or senior organizations Checking the agencys licensing, certifications, and accreditations Step 4: Ask the Right QuestionsOnce youve narrowed down your options, schedule consultations and ask important questions such as: Are caregivers licensed, bonded, and insured? How are caregivers screened and trained? What happens if a caregiver is sick or unavailable? How do they handle emergencies? Can they provide references from current clients? A reputable provider will be transparent and happy to answer all your concerns. Step 5: Evaluate Cost and Payment OptionsHome care costs vary based on the type of service, provider, and location. Find out: Hourly vs. live-in care costs If the provider accepts Medicare, Medicaid, or long-term care insurance Any additional fees for weekends, nights, or holidays Understanding the financial aspect upfront helps you plan without unexpected surprises. Additional Tips for a Smooth Transition Start with a trial period: A short-term arrangement allows you to evaluate the caregivers compatibility with your loved one. Maintain open communication: Regular check-ins ensure care remains aligned with your loved ones evolving needs. Watch for red flags: Unreliable caregivers, lack of transparency, or poor communication from the agency are warning signs to consider switching providers. The Right Home Care Provider Brings Peace of MindChoosing the right home care provider isnt just about finding helpits about ensuring your loved one receives compassionate, high-quality care that improves their quality of life.Seniors Blue Book is here to help! We connect families with trusted home care providers that fit your specific needs and budget. Contact us today at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or call 800-201-9989 to start your search!
Living with purpose and passion is what drives all of us and gives our lives meaning. Our Community Home Care team provides in-home caregiving services to help manage health needs and assist with daily activities so clients can keep living life on their terms. A key difference with Lifespark Community Home Care is each client has an RN Case Manager providing professional oversight, who can also help manage medications or provide wellness checks. Services are covered by most long-term care insurance policies and private-pay. Call for our simple pricing options - no surprise invoices.
What Can We Do For You?We want you to live a sparked and independent life. For that to happen, our passionate team works to understand your needs, wishes, and goals. We are your life-long advocates, ready to connect you to the right team at the right time. That is why we start with a free, no obligation consultation along with a start of care discovery by an RN Case Manager. From there we offer:Ongoing Free Access to Lifespark's 24/7 Everyday Support ServicesCompanionship and Meaningful ActivitiesHomemakingTransportationSafety and SupervisionFall PreventionLive-In CaregivingMobilityMedication Assistance and RemindersSupport for clients with memory loss or dementiaSpecialty CarePersonal CareCall us today at 952-345-8770 or visit us at lifespark.com
At Lifespark Hospice, we focus on you as a whole person. That includes your happiness, your comfort, your wishes, and yes, your life as you want to live it. That's where we start. Then, we surround you and your family with a team of compassionate people who look for creative ways to make every day meaningful. Your hospice team can include our hospice medical director, nurses, social workers, spiritual and bereavement counselors, hospice aides, specially trained volunteers, a music therapist, and a massage therapist. Your Hospice team meets you wherever you are on your life journey. To support you and your family, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. To keep you engaged in life. To make sure your needs and wishes are understood and honored. And to help you prepare for the transition ahead.