Who Wants To Do What?

We get it – family decisions are difficult. Especially for a family of any size, it's not usually all that common for everybody to come to the same conclusion at the same time.

This applies to all sorts of things. It can be hard to get everybody to agree on where everyone wants to have dinner. It can be a lot harder to talk about bigger things, for instance, where someone should spend their days in their reclining years.

Frankly, it's just a big decision, and family members don't have an incentive to start out all on the same page. People have their own closely held emotions about the subject. There are all kinds of considerations, from an investment in a legacy property, to the need for skilled nursing care or assistive staff for an elderly family member - and everything in between. 

Even in our families, we don't agree 100% of the time. But there are ways to streamline the process and resolve some of the conflicts around where mom or dad or some other family member is going to go.

Starting with Compassion

Our intake process is based on this reality – that families will often need help consulting and coming to an agreement or a decision on where a family member will live.

We feel it's critically important, in this specific field, to avoid high-pressure situations, and to try to reach out in a calm and compassionate way to talk about alternatives. When people feel that nobody has a dog in the fight, they're more likely to be able to brainstorm and come up with a consensus.

The Setup

We also have another key responsibility that helps in resolving these types of issues. Simply put, our responsibility is to make a plan that's great for mom or dad, and finding things that people are going to want to do, so that a lot of that back-and-forth gets eliminated from the very start.

That's where we can talk about meal planning and accommodations and all of those good things that we put into the business model, specifically to support our families and their elderly family members. But again, it starts with being able to meet and think together and come up with a solution that works for everyone. Talk to Like Family Home Care about the needs that your family has, and we can come up with a workable plan together, so that at the end of the day, everyone can rest easy about what’s happening. 

4 Tips to Choosing the Best Senior Care Services

Finding the perfect professionals to care for your aging parents can seem a little overwhelming. You might not know where to start or how to learn about the safest environment that’s suitable for your loved ones.

There are many difficult decisions that you will have to make to ensure the safety and protection of your parents. Let’s take a look at 4 tips that you should consider when you’re searching for the ideal senior care services for your folks.

1. Verify Credentials

You need to check the credentials of the agency that you’re considering. A thorough screening and background check of the caregivers is necessary. You must perform this important step to ensure that your parents will be given proper care.

Make sure the professional staff at the agency is capable of providing top-notch services. An agency that is composed of compassionate and competent professionals gives you peace of mind that your parents are in excellent hands.

2. Determine the Care You Need

What type of care will your aging parents need? Are you looking for an agency that provides medical or non-medical services?

Your parents could require skilled medical care around the clock, special equipment to breathe, mobility assistance, help with taking baths, and other necessities. Determine the kind of care you need so that you can find the most efficient staff for your parents. 

3. Ask for Recommendations

Asking for recommendations is an effective way for you to gather information about the best senior care services for your folks. You can get recommendations from your doctor, friends, neighbors, lawyer, and other reliable people you know.

There is a good chance they will know about reputable home care provider companies that you can trust.

4. Check References

How do people feel about the company that you want to hire? Checking the references of a professional home care agency gives you more insight about their background.

Good home care providers should be willing to provide you with references upon your request. This is a way for you to learn about positive or negative feedback from past clients to help you assess the reputation of the service.

You can also contact the company directly to ensure that your parents will receive exceptional care.

Help Seniors to Live Their Best Life

Family home care services come in handy during the golden years of your loved ones. When you’re unable to assist, you have the option to rely on a friendly, compassionate staff to care for your folks.

Do you have questions or concerns about getting the best care for your loved ones? Please contact our dedicated care manager to learn how we can assist you.

Home of the Brave

Many of America's seniors have an independent streak.

We know this, and we also know that various kinds of stigma around long-term care facilities and planned retirement communities have many Americans aging in place – sticking it out in their homes as they get older and health conditions compound. That can be ok, in fact, it can be something to be proud of. It can also be dangerous and lamentable, as people learn about their limitations the hard way. Every case is different – but we think that if more people understood the very real need of seniors for care, regardless of the individual’s “toughness,” lives would be saved, and vastly improved. 

There's a certain extent to which staying at home is seen as admirable and resourceful – but then there are those concerns and questions that pile up as problems develop and decreased mobility, increased fall risk and other things crop up. What about when a senior is unable to drive? How will they get what they need to their home?

Observation and Companionship

Many of the seniors who are living alone in their homes suffer from a kind of social isolation that can be difficult to see from the outside.

They also have some of the more concrete dangers that we talked about above – not having another person in the building to notice if anything happens.

Again, retirement communities are planned to offer both the companionship and the safety that seniors need, but not every elderly person is on board. And that’s okay – as we said, every case is different – but it’s important to make sure someone’s needs are served. 

In-Home Care Solutions

In many cases these people don't need round-the-clock care. They just need check ins. They need people to help with meals, monitoring, medications, and a basic daily social interaction that will help keep them steady and more engaged with the world around them.

At Like Family Home Care, we offer personal care, housekeeping, transportation, meal prep and more. We build our business around offering the models that help seniors to remain in their homes more safely, and with more of a social connection, so that their quality of life and their security is improved as they remain in their own homes. Talk to us about what your family needs – and we will help you to make a plan that sets everyone’s mind at ease! We are proud of our excellent track record of supporting seniors, and knowledgeable about the right ways to succeed. 

Home of the Brave

Many of America's seniors have an independent streak.

We know this, and we also know that various kinds of stigma around long-term care facilities and planned retirement communities have many Americans aging in place – sticking it out in their homes as they get older and health conditions compound. That can be ok, in fact, it can be something to be proud of. It can also be dangerous and lamentable, as people learn about their limitations the hard way. Every case is different – but we think that if more people understood the very real need of seniors for care, regardless of the individual’s “toughness,” lives would be saved, and vastly improved.

There's a certain extent to which staying at home is seen as admirable and resourceful – but then there are those concerns and questions that pile up as problems develop and decreased mobility, increased fall risk and other things crop up. What about when a senior is unable to drive? How will they get what they need to their home?

Observation and Companionship

Many of the seniors who are living alone in their homes suffer from a kind of social isolation that can be difficult to see from the outside.

They also have some of the more concrete dangers that we talked about above – not having another person in the building to notice if anything happens.

Again, retirement communities are planned to offer both the companionship and the safety that seniors need, but not every elderly person is on board. And that’s okay – as we said, every case is different – but it’s important to make sure someone’s needs are served.

In-Home Care Solutions

In many cases these people don't need round-the-clock care. They just need check ins. They need people to help with meals, monitoring, medications, and a basic daily social interaction that will help keep them steady and more engaged with the world around them.

At Like Family Home Care, we offer personal care, housekeeping, transportation, meal prep and more. We build our business around offering the models that help seniors to remain in their homes more safely, and with more of a social connection, so that their quality of life and their security is improved as they remain in their own homes. Talk to us about what your family needs – and we will help you to make a plan that sets everyone’s mind at ease! We are proud of our excellent track record of supporting seniors, and knowledgeable about the right ways to succeed.

Is In-Home Care a Better Option for Seniors? 4 Key Things to Know

Is in-home care a better option for seniors? Seniors deserve the best care, comfort, and security during their golden years. Various statistics and facts have shown that home care in the United States is a preferred option for most people.

Individuals receiving the most home care in the United States are over 65 years old. It is also known that 97 percent of seniors need assistance with bathing, and getting in and out of bed.

If you’re unable to care for your loved one, in-home care is a valuable option for you to consider. Read along to discover 4 reasons why this is beneficial.

1. Transportation Services

Completing daily errands can be a stressful situation for an elderly person. Home care services are beneficial for seniors who need help with transportation. 

Seniors who no longer drive can rely on someone to take them to their doctor’s appointments, to pick up prescriptions, grocery shopping, and a host of other errands. Seniors have the convenience to rely on compassionate professionals to give them safe and comfortable transportation. 

2. Meal Preparation

Daily meal preparation can be a challenging task for aging individuals. A home care service prevents seniors from doing all the work involved in meal preparation. 

Home care services enable seniors to maintain proper diet and nutrition according to their specific needs. Seniors can have an enjoyable experience getting their breakfast, lunch, and dinner on time. 

3. Individualized Care

A senior has the benefit to stay on top of their health with assistance from an in-home care service. Seniors are known for developing various types of age-related health issues. 

Some of these may include bone and heart health, depression, incontinence, and other health concerns. A personalized in-home care service enables a senior to maintain their health and dignity in the privacy of their home. 

4. More Home Visits

Visiting the elderly in a nursing home can be a difficult, exhaustive process. In-home care makes it easier for friends and family members to visit their loved ones. 

The elderly have the experience of getting unlimited visits from people who love them. Home visits from friends and family members also keep seniors happy when they’re feeling lonely.

Get the Home Care Service That Fits Your Needs

Trained and reliable professionals are always available around the clock to provide the best care to your aging parents. They give you the peace of mind that seniors will receive attention and optimal care.

Do you want to find an in-home care service that you can trust? Contact us to learn how we can give you comprehensive assistance.

Tips For Senior Citizens Who Want To Take Control Of Their Health

A recent study found that things like avoiding obesity and access to quality healthcare were an essential part of living a longer and fuller life. As you start to get older, you will have to renew your focus on staying active. Sitting indoors can lead to things like weight gain and even depression. Rather than allowing your health to decline due to a lack of physical activity, you need to take charge. 

The only way to fix your issues with inactivity is by making a game plan. With the help of health professionals and trusted friends/family members, you can make your golden years the best years of your life. If you are trying to make a plan for how to take control of your health, consider the great tips below.

A Healthy Diet is a Must 

If you live alone, you know how hard it can be to find the motivation to cook a meal. Some seniors think the best way to avoid the work of cooking is by eating a steady diet of fast or processed foods. The longer you subject your body to these foods, the harder it will be to stay healthy. Processed foods can wreak havoc on vital organs like your heart, which is why you need to make better meal choices. 

These meal choices should include healthy staples like lean proteins, leafy greens and whole grains. Preparing meals for a few days can help you avoid getting frustrated when having to cook on a daily basis. Investing in a few healthy cookbooks is also a great way to keep your meals fresh and delicious. 

Get Outside and Exercise

As the frosty temperatures of winter start to move out of most areas, many people will start to spend more time outside. If you are getting little to no physical activity, you have to make some changes. Ignoring the need for this physical activity can put your health in jeopardy. This is why you need to get outside and start walking. 

Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that provides your heart and body with a great workout. Investing in some comfortable shoes and clothing is crucial when trying to make the most out of your exercise time. Asking a friend to walk with you is also a good idea if you have a problem staying motivated to exercise. 

Socializing is Important as You Age

Another important thing you need to consider when trying to take charge of your health is getting more socialization. As a person gets older, they will usually have fewer and fewer interactions with people. This lack of socialization can be bad for your mental health. Using the power of technology is a great way for seniors living in a COVID-19 world to get socialization. Social media websites and video chat software are great tools that can be used to connect with friends and family members. 

We Can Help You With Tasks Around Your Home

Are you having a hard time performing tasks like meal prep or cleaning? If so, contact the team at Like Family Home Care for help. 

How Older Adults Can Stay Active During Cold Weather

As the temperatures continue to drop outside, it’s tempting to stay inside, grab a blanket, and cozy up on the couch. However, getting out and staying active is critical, especially for seniors. Physical activity can decrease your risk for various diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, dementia, and depression. Also, exposure to sunlight gives you some necessary Vitamin D thanks to sunlight, which can improve bone health. Today, we are sharing a few tips for you to stay active, even during the winter:

·       Take a walk.

There is a reason why walking has been considered one of the best exercises. It’s easy for everyone to do, you don’t need any expensive equipment, and it has many benefits that can’t be overlooked. Walking not only maintains a healthy weight, but it also strengthens your bones and muscles, prevents many conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and improves coordination. Before you head out the door, check weather conditions and make sure your walking path is shoveled and clear of any ice. Also, let a few people know where you are going and how long you will be gone.

·       Take a class.

Even though we are social distancing, it’s possible to take an exercise class. These days, many exercise classes have gone online, where you receive instructions and guidelines inside of your home. It’s a great way to exercise without being exposed to any harsh weather conditions. Reach out to your local gyms and find out if they offer any classes for seniors.

·       Tend your garden.

If you love gardening, you can practice your favorite hobby in the cold weather. First, you can start by winterizing your garden. This can include getting rid of weeds, clip any dead parts of plants, plant bulbs that grow in early spring, and store any tender plants away for warmer weather. You may also want to look into crops that do well in the winter seasons. Contact your local gardening center for recommendations on which plants will do the best in your local region.

·       Do household chores.

Don’t wait for the spring to start spring cleaning. Doing household chores such as laundry, vacuuming, and polishing can be a great physical activity to do around the house. It gets you moving and helps you stay productive.

Even though it’s cold, it doesn’t mean that your physical activity should come to a stop. There are ways of getting up and moving around that keep you safe and helps you follow any COVID-19 restrictions. As an older adult, it’s important to stay active and get moving to be in your best health. If the senior in your life needs in-home care, contact us at Like Family Home Care today.

Three Ways Meal Prep is Efficient

One of our most needed services for seniors is meal preparation. But sometimes this kind of service is hard for families to figure out.

Can't mom or dad just open up a can of soup, or one of those frozen chicken pot pies that he or she loves so much? Maybe, but if we're going to make a decision either way, let's err on the side of comprehensive care. Let’s make sure that he or she is taken care of.

Here are three important things that meal prep services can do for your family.

Buying In Bulk

Obviously, one of the financial benefits of meal prep is that it's distributed and served by economies of scale.

Instead of somebody buying a loaf of bread, somebody is buying 12 loaves of bread and making them all into sandwiches. When this is done right, it cuts down on the overall cost of food. Of course, there's still the cost of delivery and all that, but there's less food waste and less time and energy involved in feeding a given number of people. So even though you may end up paying the same, you’re not winding up with a bunch of discarded food trash and wrappers in your loved one’s home from day to day – which can be nearly a full-time job in itself!

Safety

You don't always think about meal preparation as a safety issue – but when it comes to seniors, in so many ways, it is. First, you have the potential for knife accidents. As your family members get older, they may tend to have less dexterity, and that's something to consider. Then there are the burns and scalding injuries that come from trying to heat food. Meal prep is the service that eliminates those dangers for your aging family member.

Eyes On Your Senior

Is mom or dad hungry? Are they even eating?

If they're preparing their own meals, you might not really know. But meal prep ensures that there will be someone keeping an eye on a senior’s diet and how often they are eating. That additional monitoring and supervision can be important in some types of assisted living scenarios.

Let’s have a conversation on what will work for the senior citizen in your family. We know that this is not a one-size-fits-all type of field. So we can work with you to get the right solutions in place. Enjoy your family time in this holiday season!