For more information about the author, click to view their website: Friends for Life
1. You are not alone.
Your caregivers and the agency office staff are now a part of your team. That’s right, you have a team now. You are no longer alone on this journey. Set up your new team as an extended part of your family. Share your insights with them and learn from the insights they garner from their time spent with your loved one. Because these new team members don’t have the same history and dynamics, you will be surprised by the different relationship they are able to form with your loved one.
2. This is a journey – give it some time.
Aging is a journey, not a destination. Allow time for the agency to find the right fit and then for those caregivers to develop relationships that will bond them to your loved one and will help make the journey smoother. Everyone understands there are tasks to be handled, but if you have a resistant loved one, allow some time for the caregivers to build trust inside that relationship. You will find that once trust has been built, those tasks (and so much more) can be easily accomplished.
3. Communication is the key.
Good communication with your team is the key to success. Whether is it receiving reports after every visit or setting up regular team meetings, staying in regular contact is vital to making sure this relationship is best serving you and your loved one. Once care is put in place, the journey continues. If you are in constant communication with your caregivers and your agency team, then you will all be able to adjust and pivot easily. Caregiving tends to be reactive, not proactive. But, with a team in place, trust built and open communication – you can get ahead of changing needs and make a plan that will make the experience better for everyone. Creating a team of support around you and your loved one will set everyone up for the best possible outcomes.
Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Jared Kelso. Jared Kelso is the owner of Friends For Life, Inc. and may be reached at 303-321- 2822 or by email at jared@friendsforlifeinc.com.
Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Services Offers Advice for Rekindling Purpose and Joy After the HolidaysSeniors Helping Seniors owners C.J. Girod and Travis Hudson are placing a spotlight on advice and insights for how seniors can find meaningful ways to stay engaged and motivated in the new year.Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care services, a franchisor with over 115 franchise partners and more than 300 territories nationwide, has grown rapidly in recent years. The company attributes its success to its skilled team of caregivers who foster meaningful connections with their senior care receivers. While the holiday season is often filled with joy and activity, the weeks that follow can be particularly challenging.According to a study by the American Psychological Association, 89% of U.S. adults report feeling the holiday blues. For older adults, this emotional slump can be even more pronounced. The shift from the holiday seasons energy to a quieter, more isolated period can lead to sadness and make it difficult to maintain an active lifestyle.After the excitement of the holidays, it can be especially tough for seniors to stay active, particularly in colder climates, said C.J. Girod, President of Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA, which serves southern Allegheny County and northern Washington County. We see every year how the post-holiday season can bring unique challenges for our elderly friends, family and neighbors.The key to staying active once the holidays have passed is to find meaningful ways to stay engaged and motivated as the new year begins, said Travis Hudson, Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors Pittsburgh Northeast, which serves northern and eastern Allegheny County and western Westmoreland County.We work closely with our senior care receivers and their families to cultivate routines and activities that inspire a sense of purpose and fulfillment throughout the year, but especially during the holiday season, Girod and Hudson said.Some of Girods and Hudsons tips for seniors looking to shake off the post-holiday doldrums include:Set small goals for the new year.Maintain social connections.Stay physically active.Look for opportunities to volunteer.Create a cozy, positive environment.Seniors Helping Seniors in-home services has grown rapidly in recent years, extending its reach into more than 30 U.S. states as well as international markets.Seniors Helping Seniors services stand out from other brands in the elder care space partly through its commitment to hiring senior caregivers, which provides employment opportunities for seniors and better cultivates meaningful relationships between caregivers and care receivers.What I truly appreciate about working with Seniors Helping Seniors network is that its commitment to improving health and well-being goes beyond just our clients, Girod said. Our whole team is deeply committed to making a positive difference in the community as a whole, and we are always looking for new opportunities to offer support and care to those who need it most, said Hudson.Caregivers are at the core of what we do, and their work is essential to the health and happiness of so many people around the world, said Seniors Helping Seniors President Namrata Yocom-Jan. Nearly half of all caregivers in the U.S. are over 50 and face their own health challenges. Thats why Seniors Helping Seniors in-home service prioritizes hiring caregivers over the age of 65 and provides comprehensive support to promote their mental, physical and emotional well-being.Over the past 25 years, weve put a lot of work into ensuring that Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care is not only the best option for our seniors but also for caregivers across the country, Yocom-Jan said. Thats something we are extremely proud of, but its not something we take for granted. We will continue to make sure anyone who has the passion and skills to be a great caregiver will find a great opportunity to grow and make an impact with Seniors Helping Seniors services. Our caregivers truly have a way to give and to receive.For more information on Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care, visit seniorshelpingseniors.com.
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/.
Welcome to Friends for Life Personal Visitations, your trusted provider of quality companionship and support services in the Greater Denver area. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors through meaningful connections, we offer unparalleled personal visitation services rooted in family values and principles of respect, love, and compassion.At Friends for Life, we understand the importance of companionship and social interaction in promoting overall well-being and happiness for seniors. That's why our dedicated team is here to provide personalized visitation services that foster meaningful connections and enrich the lives of our clients.Our personal visitation services are designed to provide companionship, emotional support, and assistance with daily activities to promote independence and quality of life for seniors. Whether it's engaging in conversation, sharing a meal, or participating in leisure activities, our compassionate caregivers are dedicated to creating a warm and inviting environment where seniors feel valued, respected, and cherished.What sets Friends for Life apart is our unwavering commitment to building genuine relationships with our clients. We understand that every individual has their own unique preferences, interests, and life experiences, and we take the time to get to know each client on a personal level. This personalized approach allows us to tailor our visitation services to meet the specific needs and preferences of each individual, ensuring a meaningful and fulfilling experience for our clients.Our team of compassionate caregivers is dedicated to providing companionship and support that goes beyond the basics. Whether it's accompanying our clients on outings, assisting with household tasks, or simply providing a listening ear, we're here to make every visit a positive and uplifting experience.In addition to providing companionship and support for seniors, Friends for Life is also committed to supporting caregivers, families, and friends who play a vital role in the lives of their loved ones. We understand that caregiving can be both rewarding and challenging, and we're here to offer guidance, assistance, and understanding every step of the way.Our vision is to offer a support network that extends beyond personal visitation services, providing assistance and understanding to seniors, caregivers, families, and friends, regardless of the circumstances. Whether you need a helping hand with daily tasks or simply someone to share a friendly conversation with, Friends for Life is here for you.Our comprehensive range of personal visitation services includes:Companionship: Engaging conversation, leisure activities, and emotional support to combat loneliness and enhance quality of life.Meal companionship: Sharing meals together and providing assistance with eating, if needed, to promote social interaction and nutrition.Outings and activities: Accompanying clients on outings to parks, museums, or other places of interest to provide stimulation and enjoyment.Household assistance: Assisting with light household chores such as tidying up, laundry, and pet care to maintain a comfortable living environment.Transportation assistance: Providing transportation to medical appointments, errands, or social outings to promote independence and community engagement.At Friends for Life Personal Visitations, we believe that everyone deserves to age with dignity, independence, and grace. With our unwavering commitment to excellence and compassion, we're honored to be your trusted partner in providing quality personal visitation services to seniors in the Greater Denver area.Experience the difference that friendship and compassion can make in the lives of your loved ones. Contact Friends for Life today to learn more about our personalized visitation solutions and schedule a complimentary consultation. Together, we can create a brighter tomorrow filled with love, respect, and meaningful connections.
Welcome to Friends for Life, your trusted partner in non-medical home care proudly serving the Denver metro area. With a heartfelt commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors, we provide unparalleled in-home assistance that upholds the highest standards of quality and compassion.At Friends for Life, we understand the importance of family values in every aspect of care. Rooted in principles of respect, love, and empathy, our dedicated team ensures that your loved ones receive the personalized attention they deserve. We believe in honoring our clients' dignity and fostering their desire for independence, while also listening attentively to their unique needs and preferences.Our mission is simple yet profound: to offer comprehensive support that enriches the lives of seniors and their families, creating a nurturing environment where individuals can thrive with dignity and grace. Whether it's assistance with daily tasks, companionship, or specialized care needs, we're here to provide unwavering support every step of the way.What sets Friends for Life apart is our unwavering commitment to building meaningful connections with our clients. We recognize that every individual is unique, with their own life story, preferences, and aspirations. That's why we take the time to get to know each client on a personal level, tailoring our services to meet their specific needs and preferences.Our team of compassionate caregivers embodies the spirit of friendship and companionship, going above and beyond to create a warm and supportive environment where seniors feel valued, respected, and cherished. From assistance with daily activities such as meal preparation, grooming, and medication reminders, to engaging companionship and emotional support, we're dedicated to making every moment count.In addition to providing exceptional care for seniors, Friends for Life is also committed to supporting caregivers, families, and friends who play a vital role in the lives of their loved ones. We understand that caregiving can be both rewarding and challenging, and we're here to offer guidance, assistance, and understanding every step of the way.Our comprehensive range of services includes:Personal care assistance: Bathing, grooming, dressing, and hygiene assistance to promote comfort and well-being.Companionship: Engaging conversation, leisure activities, and emotional support to combat loneliness and enhance quality of life.Meal preparation: Nutritious meal planning and preparation tailored to individual dietary needs and preferences.Medication reminders: Gentle reminders and assistance with medication management to ensure adherence to prescribed regimens.Light housekeeping: Assistance with household chores such as laundry, tidying up, and light cleaning to maintain a safe and comfortable living environment.Transportation: Safe and reliable transportation to medical appointments, social outings, and errands to promote independence and community engagement.Respite care: Temporary relief and support for family caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs with peace of mind.At Friends for Life, we believe that everyone deserves to age with dignity, independence, and grace. With our unwavering commitment to excellence and compassion, we're honored to be your trusted partner in providing quality non-medical home care services to the Greater Denver area.Experience the difference that friendship and compassion can make in the lives of your loved ones. Contact Friends for Life today to learn more about our personalized home care solutions and schedule a complimentary consultation. Together, we can create a brighter tomorrow filled with love, respect, and meaningful connections.