PACE is for Caregivers

With a new year, comes new cybercrimes. While technology is our friend in helping us keep connected with our loved ones, there are some sobering threats that can make it our foe. Unfortunately, internet-based crime is increasing at an alarming rate with a 64% increase in email threats year-over-year in 2020 with older people being impacted the most. Cybercriminals and spammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and more new users of technology such as seniors are falling victim to their attacks. The statistics are staggering. According to the FBI 2020 Internet Crime Report, there was a 27% year-over-year increase in cyber fraud losses totaling $1.8 billion, as reported by individuals over 50 years old. Moreover, it appears that these cybercriminals specifically target senior citizens not only because are they are less aware of technology scams, but also, they are perceived to have larger financial assets than other groups.Anytime you use a computer, smartphone, or tablet, you can fall prey to your identity and financial information being stolen and used for nefarious purposes. The good news is that there are five simple ways you can protect yourself from these attacks.We Suggest you Do NotOpen emails that look too good to be trueTypical attempts to get you to open an email include subject lines that you have won a prize or a free offer. Phishing threatsDo not click on banking or account links in an email, particularly if the email asks for updated credit card information. Cybercriminals can disguise emails to look like they are coming from legitimate organizations or people you know but clicking on these links and submitting your personal, financial, or login information may fall into the wrong hands. Always contact the financial institution directly, do not use the link in the email, to check to see if the request is valid. Almost every time it is not. Respond to emails that are an unusual plea for helpA common scam is when an individual poses as a known contact and states that they have been mugged while vacationing abroad and need you to send money ASAP. If you are concerned, call the person directly and dont respond to the email or phone call. Interact with unknown individuals or sourcesThat includes opening emails, downloading files, or interacting on social media. Only download files from a trusted source as files can be malware which can steal personal data and damage your device. Moreover, some fraudsters have been known to impersonate a potential love interest online to gain your trust and then ask for your bank information. Submit payment in response to threats of arrest from an authority figure. Common scams are when criminals pose as an IRS agent and demand payment to avoid persecution. The IRS does not email communications of this type to citizens. Just ignore these scams.As we navigate the current ever-changing cyber environment, it is possible to learn and connect safely with just a little knowledge. So now you know these five ways to protect yourself, enjoy technology today!

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

Is It Time For A Professional Caregiver?Aging comes with challenges, some of which may make it difficult to care for yourself effectively. If youre having trouble with daily activities but want to remain independent and live in your own home, it may be time to consider working with an at-home caregiver. What Is A Professional Caregiver?The idea of hiring a professional caregiver might feel nerve-wracking, and you may have some fears about what bringing a caregiver into your life will be like. All experiences with a professional caregiver and client will differ, but you can generally expect your caregiver to be compassionate, hardworking, and dedicated to helping you age safely. There are different types of professional caregivers and caregiving services. At Visiting Angels, we offer at-home, meaning our caregivers go to clients' homes to help them with daily living tasks so they can continue living independently. A few nonmedical tasks caregivers can assist with include medication reminders, cooking, transportation, grooming, light housekeeping, and mobility assistance. Visiting Angels Daphne offers various at-home care services to meet each client's needs. We also have specialized services for seniors with dementia, those in hospice, or those needing additional assistance after a hospital stay. All services are customizable to ensure each client receives the highest quality of care. Signs You May Need A Professional CaregiverIts never too soon or too late to hire a professional caregiver. However, if you are experiencing any of the following signs, you may want to start a conversation with a trusted home care agency like Visiting Angels.  You need help completing daily tasks like cleaning and cooking.  You find personal tasks like bathing and driving challenging. You have trouble remembering to take your medications.  Youve fallen within the last three months. You feel lonely, anxious, or sad when home alone.  You were recently diagnosed with a chronic health condition. You dont have nearby loved ones to contact if you need help.  Professional Caregivers With Visiting Angels Hiring a professional caregiver is a big decision, and finding the right home care agency and caregiver for you is essential. At Visiting Angels, we offer all potential clients a complimentary consultation to ensure our care solution fits your needs and expectations. During the initial consultation, a care team member explains our services and helps you discover which care service could work for you and how that service can fit into your life. This meeting is also a great time to ask questions and share concerns about caregiving. After the consultation, our care team will develop a personalized care plan addressing your needs. We then match you with a qualified caregiver with the skill set to assist you and a similar personality and interests to help build a foundation for a meaningful relationship. Once all the pieces are in place, Visiting Angels can provide care within 48 hours. Contact us today if youre ready to learn how at-home care from Visiting Angels can help you age safely and independently.Could your loved one living in Daphne, Fairhope, Orange Beach, Bay Minette, Mobile, Gulf Shores, or the surrounding communities benefit from our senior care services? Contact Visiting Angels today to book a no-cost care consultation.