April showers bring May flowers… and a dusting of pollen. While we welcome the arrival of warmer days and sunny skies, many Seniors Helping Seniors® clients face symptoms from springtime allergies. As we age, weakened immune systems or pre-existing health conditions can make older adults more vulnerable to allergies. With the allergy season peaking in April, symptoms like congestion, itchiness, and sneezing often come in full swing. If you’ve been struck by spring fever this year, the Seniors Helping Seniors® team wants to help. In this blog, we’ll review seven senior-focused tips for navigating the allergy season. Keep reading to discover our best advice for enjoying the beauty of spring while minimizing the annoying symptoms of allergies.

Springtime Allergy Season

Colorful flowers, lush leaves, and warm sunshine beckon seniors to venture outside and enjoy the natural spring beauty. However, with all the new growth comes an increase in tree, grass, and weed pollen that can lead to itchy eyes and stuffy noses for many people. Spring weather can also be unpredictable, with fluctuations in temperature and precipitation affecting pollen levels and worsening allergy symptoms. The Seniors Helping Seniors® family cares about your well-being this spring, and we encourage you to take necessary precautions to protect yourself from excess pollen exposure.

Many seniors, especially those with pre-existing health conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cardiovascular issues, experience more severe and prolonged allergic reactions. Persistent symptoms may interfere with daily activities, sleep, and overall well-being. The Seniors Helping Seniors® team wants to ensure you enjoy the beautiful weather this spring. Below, you’ll find our best tips for managing seasonal allergies.

Monitor Pollen Levels

Pollen levels can change quite a bit throughout the day, depending on various external factors. But don’t worry! Local weather forecasts and other online references make it easy to keep track of pollen levels. When pollen counts are high, limiting your time outdoors might be a good idea. If you need help accessing digital resources, your friendly and helpful Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver can lend a hand!

Invest in an Air Purifier

Air purifying devices boost indoor air quality by clearing out airborne particles like pollen. They work wonders in refreshing rooms that often gather contaminants, leaving behind noticeably cleaner and fresher air. Adding one to your home is a simple and effective way to create a healthier environment for you and your loved ones.

Keep Windows Closed

While opening windows can bring in fresh air, it also invites pollen and allergens indoors. If you struggle with severe allergies, keeping cool with AC might be a better choice. And don’t hesitate to ask your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver to help you tidy up those pollen-prone spots in your home. They’re here to support you in creating a comfortable and allergen-free environment.

Replace Air Filters in Your Home

It’s important to change the air filters in your home every three months. If it’s been a while since you last replaced them, spring is the perfect time to do so. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters offer extra protection against pollen and other contaminants. The extra shield helps maintain a healthier indoor environment for you all season long.

Wear Protective Clothing

Just as you’d apply sunblock before spending time under the sun, it’s important to take precautions to minimize pollen exposure during allergy season. Before going outside, put on a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a pollen mask for added protection. And after enjoying the outdoors, don’t forget to take a shower to wash away any lingering pollen from your skin and hair.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water each day offers numerous health benefits. It not only keeps you hydrated but also helps flush out pollen and other pollutants from your system, easing allergy symptoms such as dry throat and nasal congestion. Don’t forget to carry a reusable water bottle with you — it’s a simple way to stay hydrated and feel your best throughout the day.

Consult a Healthcare Professional

If you’re experiencing severe symptoms that you can’t manage at home, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor. They can prescribe allergy medication to help ease the effects of pollen and other irritants. If you need transportation to your appointment, your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver would be more than happy to give you a ride.

Spring brings a sense of renewal and promise with longer days and warmer temperatures. The Seniors Helping Seniors® family understands how vital it is for seniors to embrace this rejuvenating season without the burden of seasonal allergies holding them back. We hope this guide has offered valuable insights to help you navigate and manage pollen exposure this spring. Remember, our compassionate Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers are here for you, ready to provide the caring support you need to enjoy every moment of this special season.

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Celebrated each April, National Occupational Therapy Month recognizes the valuable contributions of this specialized form of healthcare. While Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services provide daily support for those we serve, occupational therapy is another method that helps seniors maintain their independence. In this Seniors Helping Seniors® blog, we’ll review the field of occupational therapy and explore the ways it can enhance the lives of seniors. Keep reading to learn more about National Occupational Therapy Month and the holistic advantages your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver can help provide and practice.

Ways Occupational Therapy Benefits Seniors at Home

 Before we dive into the many ways occupational therapy can help the senior community, let’s talk more about what occupational therapy is. Occupational therapy is an evidence-based, skilled treatment that uses activities of daily living (ADLs) to help individuals achieve personal independence. Occupational therapists undergo extensive training to assess seniors’ capabilities and develop individualized treatment plans that improve their independence and overall well-being.

By focusing on everyday tasks, occupational therapy practices can guide seniors in reclaiming their autonomy and mobility. Whether recuperating from injury, managing chronic illness, or adapting to age-related changes, many seniors find valuable support in occupational therapy. Below are a few ways that it can enhance the quality of life for seniors as they age in place.

Improves Independence and Quality of Life

As we age, everyday tasks that once seemed effortless can become more challenging. Simple activities like brushing your teeth, doing laundry, or moving around your home may require extra effort. Through targeted exercises and muscle retraining, occupational therapy can help you safely regain confidence in your mobility. Reclaiming control over your body’s movement restores a sense of independence, which can contribute to a more positive outlook on life.

Prevents Falls and Injuries

Occupational therapy incorporates muscle-strengthening exercises and gait training to improve stability and minimize the risk of falls in older adults. This training, combined with other efforts to safety-proof seniors’ homes, creates a safe and supportive environment that promotes mobility, independence, and well-being.

Manages Chronic Conditions and Disabilities

Chronic conditions often related to aging can profoundly impact seniors’ quality of life and their ability to carry out daily activities. Occupational therapists step in to provide valuable support through adaptive strategies and effective pain management techniques. These methods help seniors learn to navigate the limitations of long-term health conditions, allowing them to preserve their independence and overall well-being.

Provides Cognitive Stimulation

Practicing occupational therapy can help improve cognitive abilities that may have declined or become impaired. This might include participating in activities at home that boost memory, like solving puzzles, playing word games, sequencing tasks, and practicing exercises that promote attention.

The Seniors Helping Seniors® team loves watching our clients thrive, whether through the assistance of our caregivers or with the help of other senior-focused services. Occupational therapy provides seniors with comprehensive, personalized support that addresses their physical, cognitive, emotional, and environmental needs, enabling them to maintain independence and dignity as they age. This National Occupational Therapy Month, set aside some time to discover how this practice could benefit you or your senior loved one; it’s one more way that Seniors Helping Seniors® clients can stay active, engaged, and brimming with independence in the golden years!

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Seniors, it’s time to make every dollar count and thrive financially with our Seniors Helping Seniors® exclusive budgeting tips. In today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, seniors in the southern region must manage their finances wisely, to ensure a comfortable and stable future. In this blog, we will explore various practical strategies and resources. From taking advantage of senior discounts offered at grocery stores to utilizing budgeting apps and automating savings, we’ll cover all the essentials. Whether you’re looking to extend your retirement savings, protect your investments, or explore sustainable energy solutions such as solar panels, our guide is here to help. Join us as we embark on a journey to empower seniors with the knowledge and tools necessary to achieve financial well-being and peace of mind. Keep reading and let’s dive in!

Shop Smarter at the Grocery Store

Many popular grocery stores offer senior discounts that can help you save money on your food and household item purchases. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can reduce overall expenses and stretch your money further. Your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver is happy to help you develop a meal plan that maximizes your weekly grocery budget.

Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Community Resources

As a senior citizen, you have access to a range of free or low-cost community resources and services that can help you stay active and engaged while saving money. These local resources include senior centers, meal delivery programs, transportation services, and recreational activities. By taking advantage of these community resources, you can maintain a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle without putting a strain on your finances.

Look for Senior Discounts

Keep your eye out for senior retail discounts, particularly at chain restaurants and fast-food establishments. Many restaurants often offer special menus or discounts for seniors. Also, retailers offer ongoing discounts for seniors on various merchandise. By actively seeking out and utilizing these discounts, seniors can enjoy affordable dining options and savings on essential purchases, making their money go further without sacrificing convenience or quality.

Use a Budgeting App to Track Expenses

Discover the ease of managing your monthly expenses with user-friendly budgeting apps. These handy digital tools simplify tracking across categories like groceries, utilities, transportation, and entertainment. If you’re not tech-savvy, your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver can assist you in setting up the app, inputting data, and understanding your financial insights. Together, you can navigate your finances with confidence, ensuring a clearer understanding of your spending habits and empowering informed decisions for a brighter financial future!

Automate Savings and Bill Payments

Simplify your finances by setting up automatic transfers from your checking to savings account and automating bill payments. Automating payments is a straightforward process that you can quickly arrange online by visiting your bank’s web portal or your biller’s website. You’ll be able to choose the frequency and payment date. This is a hassle-free way to stay on top of your bills and avoid late fees and penalties.

Get a Helping Hand from Your Seniors Helping Seniors® Caregiver

If you’re looking for some help managing your finances, turn to your Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home caregiver. They know plenty of tricks to save you money, from finding discounts to tapping into government programs and community resources. Together, you and your caregiver can come up with a budget that works for you, so you can worry less and enjoy life more.

Install Solar Panels

Take advantage of the sunshine by installing solar panels to reduce energy costs over the long term. Solar energy systems can harness this renewable resource to generate electricity for your home. By investing in solar panels, you not only decrease your reliance on traditional energy sources but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing your carbon footprint. Additionally, many areas offer incentives, rebates, and tax credits for solar panel installations, making it an even more financially attractive option.

As you reach your golden years, it’s crucial to take control of your finances. This guide provides valuable tips and strategies to help seniors budget better and save more money. Navigating finances can be overwhelming — that’s where our dedicated Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers step in. With their expertise and support, they can help you implement these strategies seamlessly into your daily routine. Together, you can develop a personalized financial plan that aligns with your goals and circumstances. The Seniors Helping Seniors® team is here to support you in confidently navigating the complexities of financial management and enjoying peace of mind, knowing that your bank balance is secure.

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How did you sleep last night? The Seniors Helping Seniors® family is celebrating National Sleep Awareness Week from March 10th to March 16th. It’s an excellent opportunity to reflect on your habits and consider any adjustments you can make to enhance the quality of your sleep.

A good night’s sleep can make all the difference in how you feel the next day — especially for seniors. It’s like hitting the reset button for your body and mind. Undisturbed sleep allows you to recover from the day, leading to improved cognitive function, better mood regulation, and a strengthened immune system. However, achieving a peaceful night’s rest becomes increasingly difficult with age.

Sleep patterns can change as you get older, leaving many seniors tossing and turning instead of snoozing peacefully. Environmental and psychological factors can also make falling asleep and staying asleep challenging. Do you find yourself counting sheep every night? The Seniors Helping Seniors® team is here to lend a hand. We’ve gathered six helpful tips to help you catch those Z’s. Keep reading to find out how to start sleeping better and wake up feeling rejuvenated every morning!

Establish a Bedtime Routine

It’s much easier to fall asleep once your mind and body know it’s bedtime. Create a consistent wind-down routine to signal that it’s time to relax and prepare for sleep. Try incorporating activities such as reading, gentle stretching, or meditation to help calm your mind and prepare your body for a restful night’s sleep. Your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver can help incorporate these relaxing techniques into your home assistance.

Limit Screen Time Before Bed

Take devices out of your bedtime routine. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can stimulate your brain, hindering the natural production of melatonin in your body. Try to unplug and disconnect from screens at least one hour before bedtime.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Everyone hates waking up with a crick in their neck. Investing in a better mattress and supportive pillows can prevent discomfort and pains. Your bedding also makes an impact on the quality of your sleep. Consider the material and feel of your sheets; you want a fabric that will keep you at a comfortable temperature all night.

Limit Daytime Naps

As tempting as it is to take a cat nap in the afternoon, be mindful that longer or more frequent naps can throw off your nightly sleep routine. Keep your naps short and sweet, around 20-30 minutes, and schedule them earlier in the day. This way, you can still enjoy a refreshing break without sacrificing your ability to get a good night’s rest.

Stay Active During the Day

Regular physical activity can help you sleep better. Thirty minutes of moderate exercise each day can benefit your overall health and well-being. Just be sure to avoid vigorous workouts right before bedtime, as it can be too stimulating.

Watch Your Diet

It’s important to pay attention to what you eat and drink, especially before going to bed. Consuming heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime can disrupt your sleep schedule. Consider switching to calming beverages like herbal tea or warm milk in the evening to help you fall asleep. If you need assistance with meal planning or adjusting your diet, your Seniors Helping Seniors® team is here to support you every step of the way.

Set Your Alarm for the Same Time

Consistency is key when it comes to establishing a healthy sleep routine. Your body thrives on regularity, so try to set a fixed wake-up time and stick to it, even on weekends or days off when sleeping in feels even more tempting.

If you still have trouble getting a good night’s sleep despite trying different methods, it might be time to seek expert guidance. Consulting with a sleep specialist or healthcare provider can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your unique needs. They can also help identify any underlying sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome, that might affect your sleep quality. Your health and well-being are important, and your Seniors Helping Seniors® team is here to support you in getting the restful sleep you deserve.

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Even though Valentine’s Day has passed, there are no rules on when you can show gratitude toward those who matter most. Throughout the year, Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services demonstrate that Love is in our Care®. We do this with heartfelt acts of service and compassion. Our caregivers work tirelessly to provide exceptional assistance to seniors nationwide, and we cannot thank them enough for their hard work!

To show our appreciation, we’ve compiled a list of five simple yet thoughtful ways to help you surprise your or your loved one’s Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver. These ideas will allow you to acknowledge their commitment and show how much you value and appreciate their service.

1.      Write A Personalized Card

Crafting a tailored card is an easy but also profound way to express gratitude to your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver. Write down specific instances in which they made a difference in your life and let them know how much you appreciate their dedication. Whether it’s store-bought or homemade, a heartfelt card can convey genuine emotions and make your caregiver feel truly valued on this special day.

2.      Give A Small Token Of Appreciation

Small gestures can leave a lasting impression, so consider giving your caregiver a thoughtful gift that reflects your gratitude. It could be something as simple as a handcrafted item, a personalized trinket, or a homemade sweet treat. These small tokens of appreciation are tangible reminders of how much you care, and they’ll make your caregiver feel cherished and recognized for their hard work.

3.      Plan A Friendly Outing

Spending quality time together outside of the home can be a great way to express your appreciation and foster a deeper connection with your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver. Plan a “friend date” where you can enjoy a casual lunch, a relaxing coffee break, or even a visit to a local attraction. By making plans to spend time together, you can connect personally and create joyous memories that strengthen your relationship.

4.      Make A Care Package

Assembling a thoughtful care package with items catering to your caregiver’s well-being is another way to show your gratitude. Include scented candles, soothing teas, or a cozy blanket to create a relaxing atmosphere. Or put together a basket with their favorite candies and treats! Make this care package even more meaningful by adding a personalized note expressing your thanks.

5.      Perform An Act Of Kindness

Finally, kind acts can be a powerful way to display your appreciation. Whether it’s extending a heartfelt compliment, brewing your caregiver’s favorite coffee, or planning an activity together at home, these small acts of kindness show that you recognize their hard work and want to make their day a little brighter.

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While physical fitness is crucial for seniors’ health, nurturing one’s mind is equally as important. Brain exercises enhance cognitive abilities, memory, and focus, similar to how diverse workouts target specific muscle groups. At Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services, we understand the unique needs of our clients in the Northeast. That’s why we’ve gathered eight enjoyable memory games designed to improve mental skills and keep the mind agile. Read on to discover these delightful, brain-boosting activities and let’s play!

Jigsaw Puzzles

Solving jigsaw puzzles can enhance visual-spatial skills and improve problem-solving abilities. Connecting pieces of different shapes and colors tests patience and sharpens an individual’s eye for detail.

Simon Says

Playing Simon Says, a classic childhood game, encourages active listening and short-term memory. It’s a fun way to exercise one’s ability to follow instructions accurately while encouraging quick thinking and coordination. Partner up with a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver and give it a try!

Trivia

Answering trivia questions is a great way for seniors to test their knowledge of different subjects, while also learning new facts and improving memory. Looking for a topic? Consider exploring the Northeast’s history, geography, and local culture. Challenge friends, family, or a caregiver to a few rounds and see who wins the title of ultimate trivia champ!

Crossword Puzzles or Sudoku

Completing crossword puzzles and Sudoku challenges vocabulary, logic, and problem-solving skills. Tricky brain teasers promote mental agility and are a delightful, accessible way to keep the mind sharp and active.

Word Recall

Word Recall is a fun game that involves remembering and reciting words. To start the game, pick a word. Next, each player takes turns adding a new word that begins with the last letter of the previous word. For example, if the first word is “apple,” the next could be “elephant,” and so on. This simple game is an engaging way to improve language processing and recall.

Chess or Checkers

Challenge a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver to a game of chess or checkers! Strategy games demand critical thinking, planning, and foresight. Playing a few rounds hones analytical skills and enhances concentration and decision-making abilities — all from the comfort of home.

Name That Tune

How well do you or your senior loved one know your favorite songs? Our clients can test their music knowledge with this enjoyable recall game. To get started, have a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver play a few seconds of a song and try to guess the title and who sings it. Studies show that music can stimulate the part of the brain responsible for memory and emotion. Not to mention, hearing familiar tunes can also bring back positive feelings of nostalgia.

Memory Tray

Improve short-term memory using items found around the house. Participants will need a partner for this one — a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver makes the perfect teammate! Start by asking them to place some items on a tray or tabletop. Study the pieces for a minute or two and then have them remove the objects. Afterward, try to recall as many items as possible. This game is an interactive way to challenge attention, concentration, and visual-spatial abilities.

These memory games are specifically tailored to engage seniors, providing enjoyable moments of connection while challenging their minds. Activities like playing word games or testing analytical skills can boost brain function, improve cognitive skills, and enhance seniors’ overall mental acuity. When paired with Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services, mental agility training enables seniors to live their golden years to the fullest potential, while staying connected to their community and their roots.

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Every passing year leaves behind its own set of special memories. The Seniors Helping Seniors® family loves helping those we serve to reflect on the past and document its most meaningful parts. The result is a tangible keepsake showcasing our clients’ treasured moments and personal growth.

From scrapbooking, organizing digital files, and creating memory boxes to journaling and expressing through art, we’ll explore various ways to reflect on the past year’s experiences below. Whether looking to capture the significant events that brought joy or the small moments that warmed the heart, Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers can help you or a senior loved one create a beautiful picture of the year gone by.

Document Valued Moments in a Journal

Writing down thoughts, experiences, and emotions at the end of the year is a personal time capsule, providing a vivid account of cherished memories for seniors to revisit and reflect upon. Through journaling, you or a family member can remember highlights, challenges, and personal growth encountered throughout the year in a reflective and meaningful medium.

Capture Memories with Scrapbooking

Transform treasured memories into tangible keepsakes by creating a personalized scrapbook. Artistically compile photographs, mementos, written anecdotes, and other important items in a book or binder to share with loved ones. This creative outlet helps you reflect on your or your special senior’s life, showcasing the resilience, joy, and beauty in everyday experiences.

Create a Personal Time Capsule

Gather special items from the year, like souvenirs, letters, and trinkets, to make a curated collection of memories. It’s like a treasure chest full of important moments, stories, and emotions, enabling seniors to touch the past in a meaningful way.

Organize Digital Files

Thoughtfully arrange digital photos, videos, and documents to keep them safe and accessible. Sorting digital files can bring back beautiful moments and feelings from the past, eliciting happy memories whenever seniors need a little nostalgia.

Chart The Year’s Journey

Create a visual map or timeline of places visited, events attended, or experiences had during the year. This guide allows seniors to trace their journey, giving them a clear picture of the special moments they’ve cherished.

Express Memories with Art

Artistic endeavors like painting, drawing, or crafting let seniors creatively show their feelings and memories. Use different materials to make something unique and forever capture a favorite moment.

Share The Experience!

The only thing better than walking down memory lane is doing it with a good friend, like a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver. No matter which method you or your loved one uses to document 2023, there are so many opportunities to share stories and form closer connections along the way! Whether it is a tale of triumph, disappointment, or a story that always gets a laugh, our caregivers love learning about the events that make our clients who they are.

As the year draws to a close, the Seniors Helping Seniors® team recognizes that the power of journaling, scrapbooking, and creating becomes ever more apparent. These aren’t just creative outlets; they’re time capsules of a year lived fully. As we turn the page to a new year, try implementing one of these creative avenues into your routine or that of a loved one. The moments captured today will build a legacy of memories for tomorrow!

The post Remembering 2023: Preserve The Year’s Cherished Moments With Seniors Helping Seniors® In-Home Care Services appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

The holiday season calls for joy, celebration, and connection! Technology can help increase accessibility during this festive period; however, many seniors feel overwhelmed navigating the digital space. To help our clients stay active and engaged during the holiday season, the Seniors Helping Seniors® team has put together a handy guide with easy-to-follow tech tips designed to elevate every experience during this special time of year.

1.      Monitor Winter Weather with a Mobile App

Stay updated and ready for shifting weather in the Northeast by using a dependable weather app on your phone or mobile device. Monitor conditions and declining temperatures to organize your plans and prioritize safety throughout the winter months. Unsure about downloading apps? Reach out to a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver for assistance!

2.      Add Smart Devices to Your Home

Simplify your daily routine with smart devices like voice-activated assistants or smart thermostats. Voice-activated assistants help you stay on track during the holidays by tracking shipments, providing information, and setting reminders. Smart thermostats automatically adjust the temperature of your home so you can be comfortable without lifting a finger.

3.      Connect with Faraway Loved Ones via Video Chat

Virtually celebrate with long-distance friends and family this holiday season through face-to-face video chats. User-friendly platforms make it easy to share festive moments, exchange stories, and express love despite the miles separating you. Ask your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver to help you schedule a call.

4.      Try Online Holiday Shopping

Avoid crowds and long lines during the busy holiday season by shopping online from the comfort of home. Using the internet, you can effortlessly search websites for gifts, compare prices, and have items delivered directly to your doorstep.

5.      Send Personalized E-Cards to Friends and Family

Add a personal touch to your holiday greetings by sending customized e-cards. Express your warmth and well wishes digitally, selecting from various designs and messages to spread joy to family and friends.

6.      Schedule Medication Reminders on Your Devices

The hustle and bustle of the holidays make it easy to forget to take medications on time. Maintain your health regimen throughout the season by setting up medication reminders on your devices.

7.      Embrace the Festive Spirit with Online Music and Video Streaming

Set the holiday mood by streaming your favorite festive movies and songs. Music streaming platforms have millions of seasonal tunes to create a cheerful ambiance at home. You can also use video streaming platforms to find the perfect film for a holiday movie night.

8.      Arm Yourself Against Holiday Scams

Scammers frequently exploit the festive spirit, aiming to deceive seniors through fake charity appeals, bogus online shopping offers, or fraudulent calls posing as relatives in need. Remain vigilant and stay informed to safeguard your finances and personal information.

The Seniors Helping Seniors® family wants to help you stay connected, secure, and enjoy the season’s festivities. Whether checking the weather or video chatting with family, these tech tips make the holidays cozier and more convenient. Paired with the compassionate assistance of a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver, you’ll be set to savor a fun and safe holiday season!

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Autumn represents change and reflection, making it the perfect backdrop for seniors to embrace the therapeutic benefits of music. During this transformative season, sentimental and nostalgic feelings often arise. Creating an uplifting fall song playlist can be a cathartic way to express emotions. In this blog post, we explore music’s profound impact on seniors’ emotional, physical, and social well-being. Continue reading for a few Seniors Helping Seniors® recommendations on curating an inspiring autumn soundtrack.

Explore The Power Of Music

Music therapy, a method of using music to promote well-being, is a powerful tool for seniors in the autumn. The practice uses musical elements, such as sound, rhythm, melody, and lyrics, to facilitate personal growth. Music’s ability to evoke emotions and memories is particularly influential this time of year.

Listening to mindfully chosen melodies provides plenty of benefits for the senior community. These might include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved mood
• Stimulated cognitive function

In addition, Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers can use elements of music therapy to foster social interaction, communication, and self-expression, contributing to a holistic approach to in-home senior care.

Introducing music therapy into your autumn routine can be as simple as curating a playlist that mirrors the season’s essence. You can make a compilation by jotting down your favorite songs, hand-picking albums from your record collection, creating a custom CD, or digitally organizing your songs on a music streaming platform. Whichever method you choose, Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers are ready to provide their support. Below, we’ve outlined four different categories and inventive ideas to guide you in creating an ideal fall-themed playlist.

1.      Let Emotions Lead

Autumn’s emotional depth can be your guide when curating a playlist. Consider a mood or feeling you want to evoke and choose resonant songs. For a joyful tone, go for lively tracks with optimistic lyrics and cheerful melodies. Alternatively, select songs with slower beats and contemplative themes for a more reflective sound.

2.      Stick to a Genre

Add thematic structure to your playlist by focusing on a singular genre. Select a style that resonates with the season’s mood. Consider genres like folk for a cozy, reflective ambiance or classic rock for a more celebratory feel.

3.      Pick a Topic

Base your playlist on an autumn-related topic. Whether it’s songs about cozy nights around a bonfire or the beauty of falling leaves, concentrating on fall subjects allows for a playlist with a consistent theme tailored to the unique aspects of the season.

4.      Stay on Beat

Mirror your autumn mood through your playlist’s tempo. Include slower, melodic tunes for reflection and introduce faster beats for celebration. Focusing on musical rhythm creates a dynamic soundtrack for your fall routine.

Crafting a themed playlist during autumn can be a simple and enriching experience. Listening to music that evokes certain feelings, whether through a singular genre, specific song topics, or precise musical rhythm, can stimulate seniors to connect with feelings that arise in the fall. No matter your musical preferences, Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers can help you find harmonious notes for an introspective autumn soundtrack.

The post Sounds of the Season: Create the Perfect Autumn Playlist With Seniors Helping Seniors® In-Home Care Services appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

The Seniors Helping Seniors® family takes pride in facilitating meaningful, lasting connections between caregivers, clients, and families. We base our mission around the importance of forming a positive relationship between those giving and receiving in-home senior care.

Strong, trust-based comradery contributes to an efficient, fulfilling, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. So this month, let’s make it a point to get to know one another a little better!

The Benefits of a Positive Client-Caregiver Relationship

As dedicated companions, Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers add moments of joy to each day. Fostering a deep connection offers countless benefits to physical and mental well-being. Once you feel comfortable around your caregiver, their presence can alleviate stress and anxiety surrounding your or your loved one’s in-home care.

A strong bond provides emotional support and instills a sense of belonging as well. As with any friendship, it’ll take time to get to know your caregiver. However, inquiring about their life and uncovering their personality is an easy-going way to become close.

The Purpose of Asking Questions

Giving your caregiver a friendly “3rd degree” helps improve communication skills and encourages them – and you – to open up. After all, sharing details about yourself is often easier when both parties are participating in the conversation! This dynamic exchange can lead to better understanding, reduced stress, and a more personalized care experience.

As you know, Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services makes pairing caregivers and clients with similar interests and backgrounds a priority, so our caregivers often have plenty in common with those we serve. Who knows what similarities you can uncover with a few fun-loving questions! Enjoyable conversations form the foundation of a strong bond, and provide an endless array of meaningful topics to explore.

Ready to get started? Here are five lighthearted questions Seniors Helping Seniors® clients can ask their caregivers for a deeper friendship.

Question 1: Did you or your family have any traditions growing up? What were they?

This question encourages your caregiver to share cherished memories and customs that have been passed down. You’ll be able to glimpse into their cultural heritage, upbringing, and the bonds they share within their family.

Whether it’s a holiday tradition, a special family ritual, or a unique celebration, this question evokes meaningful stories from their past, fostering a deeper connection and understanding between you and your caregiver.

Question 2: Is there a book, movie, or song that holds a special place in your heart? Why is it important to you?

Preferences in literature, cinema, and music are often deeply rooted in our emotions and personal experiences. This question encourages your caregiver to share their artistic tastes along with the feelings, memories, and life events associated with it. Discussions about art, music, and literature can give you insight on the unique perspectives that shape your caregiver’s character.

Question 3: What is the most treasured item you own and what’s the story behind it?

Personal possessions frequently carry sentimental value and powerful memories. By inquiring about their most cherished belongings, you invite your caregiver to share the emotions, experiences, and stories attached to the physical object.

This question opens a window into their past, allowing them to reminisce about meaningful moments or relationships that have shaped their life. In turn, you’re able to gain a deeper understanding of their values, attachments, and what brings them joy.

Question 4: What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever traveled to, and why did you love it?

One’s choice of a favorite travel destination often reveals personal preferences, interests, and the experiences that have left a lasting impact. Asking this question to your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver can lead to engaging conversations about cities, cultures, landscapes, and funny moments on the road. Their response reveals their unique experiences and perspectives that have contributed to their personal growth and worldview.

Question 5: Is there anything specific you’d like to know about me or my life?

Friendship is a two-way street; sharing is just as important as asking! Opening yourself up demonstrates your willingness to create a reciprocal connection. It encourages your caregiver to get to know you better, creating a space for deeper conversations and mutual understanding. You never know, they may surprise you with the fun questions they ask!

Watching our caregivers and clients form quick and lasting connections is one of the most rewarding aspects of our in-home senior care. It’s also one of the many ways we provide assistance that feels less like a service, more like getting a little help from your friends®! Ultimately, the act of asking questions, along with the genuine exchange of stories and insights, lies at the heart of our mission to provide not just care but also lasting connections and joy every day.

The post Break the Ice: 5 Fun Questions To Help You Get To Know Your Seniors Helping Seniors® Caregiver appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Crafting beautiful and festive pumpkins doesn’t have to involve sharp tools and a big mess to clean up. For seniors in the Heartland looking for an orderly and safer way to decorate their fall gourds, the Seniors Helping Seniors® family has gathered a range of creative options that promise all the charm of pumpkin decoration without the fuss.

In this article, we’ll explore accessible hands-on crafts that allow seniors to showcase their creativity, embrace the season, and make beautiful decorations to display at home. Keep reading for a list of fun, pumpkin carving alternatives every senior in the Heartland can do this autumn!

Painting

You don’t have to be an expert artist to create a fall masterpiece. With a palette of acrylic paints, brushes, and a pumpkin as your canvas, you can let your imagination run wild without any sharp tools or messy pieces.

This art form can be easily tailored to individual preferences and skill levels. The sky’s the limit of what you can paint on your pumpkin! Draw a silly face, paint a fun pattern, or stick to one color to match your home décor. Need a bit of inspiration? Draw from the beautiful nature of the Heartland area.

Glitter

Add some sparkle to the season with this easy and fabulous DIY project. Start with a clean, dry pumpkin of your choice and apply a layer of adhesive or glue evenly onto the surface. Make sure the areas where you want the glitter to adhere are fully covered. Then, sprinkle glitter generously onto the glue, making sure to coat the pumpkin thoroughly. The result is a dazzling pumpkin that celebrates fall with a touch of glamor.

Buttons

Break out your button collection for this cozy, fall craft! Enlist the help of your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver to pick a variety of buttons in different sizes, shapes, and colors to suit your creative vision. Using a strong adhesive like craft glue, carefully stick the buttons onto the pumpkin’s surface, arranging them in patterns, designs, or even creating whimsical faces. Your button-adorned pumpkin will be a unique and delightful addition to your space.

Tip: If you want to keep your buttons, use a pin instead of glue so you can remove them once the season is over.

Fabric

Add warmth and texture to your fall decorations by wrapping a pumpkin in fabric. Start by choosing the material. You can pick a fall-themed flannel or burlap, or think outside the box with vibrant colors and prints.

Next, cut the fabric into small pieces or strips that can be easily wrapped on the pumpkin’s surface. Using a strong adhesive like craft glue or a hot glue gun, carefully stick the fabric pieces to the pumpkin, layering and overlapping them to achieve your desired look. You’ll be left with a cozy, homespun pumpkin that will make a perfect addition to your fall décor.

Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers love helping our clients tap into their creativity, so be sure to invite them to join the fun. After all, crafts are even more enjoyable with friends! A pumpkin decorating party makes for the perfect fall get together as well. Invite a few friends or family members over, whip up some fall snacks, and let’s craft some beautiful memories together!

The post Get Festive this Fall! 3 Mess-Free, Seniors Helping Seniors® Alternatives to Pumpkin Carving appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Growing older can be an amazing experience, and having your aging parents involved in your life and your children’s can be an enriching and wonderful thing for all concerned. However, as our parents move through their golden years, some additional challenges may emerge around balancing caring for them and caring for the younger members of your family. While this may seem difficult, it’s generally not an insurmountable issue. Seniors Helping Seniors understands the complexities of elder care, so with that experience in mind, we’d like to offer some tips for balancing caring for aging parents and raising children. It is not a proscriptive list, so feel free to pick, choose, and adapt our suggestions to work for you.

Clear communication is key: As in all human relationships and all family ventures, clear, consistent, and open communication is the key to success. As we age, we may become less adaptive to change, be it personal or within the family. You might want to include your aging parents in the conversation if you’re moving, if your kids are changing schools or going to college, or if your work schedule is changing. Give them a space where voice concerns, ask questions, and otherwise get comfortable with the new things happening around them.

Listening is part of communication, but unfortunately, we all sometimes forget to listen to our family members–especially the elderly. The fact is that your aging parents are still adults, and they still have needs, feelings, and preferences. As part of clear communication, ensuring that you’re listening to their desires, opinions, and thoughts is a big step in ensuring that they’re being taken care of and that you can better balance their needs with everything going on in your life.

Just as you need to involve your parents and listen to their needs, it’s also important to keep your children in the loop when it comes to life changes, particularly those regarding your aging parents. Young children may need some help understanding why their grandparents are coming to live with them, are less mobile than they used to be, or are moving to an assisted living facility. Older children have their own emotional needs, and as young adults, they deserve to have their thoughts and needs heard.

Take care of–and make time for–yourself! In all of this, you are important, and you deserve to be loved, cared for, supported, and treated with kindness. You’re a human and you’ll need to take breaks, do things you enjoy, or just rest now and then. Involve other family members, reach out to friends and neighbors, and find supportive programs to help you take care of your parents and keep the kids occupied while you do the things that make you happy and help you feel good about life.

Finally, and maybe most importantly: ask for help when you need it and accept help when it’s offered. It’s so easy to fall into the trap of thinking that all of this is your responsibility, 24 hours a day forever. The reality is that you need time for yourself, as we pointed out above, and your aging parents may need some additional care or companionship that you’re not in a position to offer them. By using the available resources to get the help that you and your parents need, you’ll make everyone’s life easier and make the time you spend with them that much richer.

Caring for older adults can be challenging, but Seniors Helping Seniors is here to help. Our team of senior volunteers understands what their fellow seniors need, and are there to help with a variety of day-to-day tasks or provide a bit of age-appropriate companionship as needed. The golden years are a precious time, meant to be enjoyed to its fullest, and our unique approach to senior care helps all involved get the most out of them. If you’d like a little help or company for an aging parent, if you’re a senior who could use a hand at home, or if you’d like to volunteer, get in touch with us today!

The post Tips for Balancing Caring for Aging Parents and Raising Children appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Healthy Aging Month, celebrated every September, brings awareness to the physical and mental changes seniors experience as they age. This month-long observance also reminds seniors to care for physical and mental health throughout the golden years. Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services enable older adults to lead a vibrant and fulfilling life. A kind hand and a positive perspective will help you or your senior loved one remain connected, curious, and content as you navigate the later years.

The Significance Of Healthy Aging

Healthy aging is a conscious choice with remarkable benefits for older adults. The goal is not only living longer, but living better. Prioritizing physical and mental health enables seniors to improve their well-being and outlook. This includes lifestyle changes like engaging in regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and finding activities that bring joy. Continue reading for four Seniors Helping Seniors® ways to promote healthy aging this month.

1.     Focus On Physical Well-Being

During Healthy Aging Month, make movement an enjoyable part of your or your special senior’s routine. Non-strenuous activity helps us stay fit while improving overall well-being, and an active lifestyle builds muscle and mobility for everyday life.

Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Explore workouts that match your fitness level or that of a loved one. Some options that the Seniors Helping Seniors® family loves include yoga, swimming, walking, and even dancing!

2.     Nurture Emotional Health

Mental health matters as much as physical health. Prioritize self-care this month by incorporating mindfulness into a daily routine.

Peaceful activities like meditation, breathing exercises, or journaling center thoughts and reduce stress. Seek opportunities to connect with friends and family. Sharing stories, laughing, and being present with loved ones combats feelings of isolation and loneliness, contributing to a positive state of mind. If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help.

3.     Take Preventative Measures

Healthy Aging Month is the perfect time to schedule regular check-ups with a healthcare provider. Monitor health and keep up with recommended screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and bone density tests. Be sure to follow recommended vaccines, including influenza, pneumococcal, and shingles.

Your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver is happy to give you or a senior loved one a ride to any appointments. Proactive measures empower seniors to take control of health, allowing our clients to continue enjoying life to the fullest.

4.     Make Positive Lifestyle Choices

Lastly, this month offers an excellent opportunity to incorporate better habits into a daily routine. Consider setting specific goals that align with your well-being aspirations or those of a loved one.

Aiming to eat healthier? Start cooking with more nutritious, nutrient-rich foods. Want to build a better sleep schedule? Try going to bed an hour earlier and reading before going to sleep. Or, get more organized by committing to decluttering at home. It takes about two months for a new habit to stick, so don’t wait to make lifestyle changes.

Healthy Aging Month reminds seniors to take care of their well-being. As we age, each day presents an opportunity to make positive changes. Whether embarking on a new exercise routine, practicing daily mindfulness, or starting a positive habit, there are plenty of ways to nurture physical, mental, and emotional health. Add a layer of support by enlisting help from a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver. With their assistance, the seniors we serve can confidently navigate this journey, knowing that their well-being is in capable hands.

The post Make the Most Of Healthy Aging Month! Prioritize Personal Wellness With Seniors Helping Seniors® In-Home Care Services appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Everyone views aging differently. To some, the idea of getting older is scary. Others embrace it with a youthful ferocity! At the end of the day, your mindset is more important than you think. It plays a large part in the quality of life experienced throughout your Golden Years.

Seniors Helping Seniors^® in-home care services is committed to inspiring others to age gracefully and independently. One of the ways we encourage our care recipients to make the most of their senior years is by promoting “positive aging” techniques.

What Is Positive Aging?
Positive aging is all about mindset. It refers to the idea that if you maintain an optimistic outlook in your senior years — coupled with healthy habits, social engagement, and mental stimulation — you’ll feel good about yourself, remain physically active, and continue to engage fully in all aspects of life!

Incorporating positive aging techniques into your daily routine might sound difficult, but it’s easier than you think. Of course, our Seniors Helping Seniors^® caregivers will stand by your side, ready to help you create and practice a program that will do your mind and body good!

Now that you know why positive aging is important, let’s discuss five simple ways Seniors Helping Seniors^® care receivers can work the power of positivity into everyday life!

1 – Embrace Your Age!
Age is just a number, after all. Maintaining a youthful outlook and adapting to your changing abilities can help you accept that growing older is a normal part of life – one that every person (including your Seniors Helping Seniors^® caregiver) is attempting to navigate.

The first step in discovering the power of positive aging is to accept the aging process by working with it and not against it. This makes it easier to cope with the challenges this stage of life presents, and instead, start looking forward to the possibilities!

2 – Make Fitness A Priority
Just thirty minutes of daily exercise can revolutionize your health. It can help you look and feel younger, complete tasks more easily, and prevent accidents and falls – all of which are essential for maintaining a positive outlook. Try the following Seniors Helping Seniors^® suggestions to jumpstart your fitness routine:

Go for a walk
Walking is an excellent way to get the blood pumping while improving heart health, boosting mental clarity, and lowering blood pressure. Commit to a daily walk with a friend, family member, or your Seniors Helping Seniors^® companion!

Explore senior fitness classes
There are plenty of exercise options for active seniors! Look into what classes your local senior center, gym, or fitness studio offers. Activities like water aerobics, chair yoga, and body weight workouts are popular among seniors and provide low impact workouts that will still make you feel the burn!

Don’t get discouraged if it’s tough to keep up at first. Your workouts will become easier as you build strength. Be consistent and you’ll soon look forward to your daily exercise regimen!

3 – Stay Connected
Building and maintaining close relationships is also essential to a positive aging plan. Doing so can combat loneliness, improve self-esteem, and foster a sense of belonging. Not sure where to begin? Try one of the following to make new friends or reconnect with some old pals:

• Organize a monthly dinner with friends or family where everyone brings a different dish
• Join a social group, like a birdwatching or book club, pickleball league, or volunteer service
• Make it a point to attend your grandkids’ sporting games and performances – they’ll love having you there to cheer them on!

As always, remember to lean on your Seniors Helping Seniors^® caregiver. They’re available to get you to and from social events or to accompany you on a new adventure, so let’s go!

4 – Nurture Healthy Habits
Maintaining a balanced diet is critical to the aging process. Eating right helps keep your weight at an appropriate level and supports heart health. These simple diet rules can help you stay on track:

• Incorporate lean proteins, plenty of vegetables (especially those that are orange, red, and green), substitute whole grains whenever possible, and stick to low-fat dairy products
• Drink lots of (the right) fluids – water, tea, and coffee – and stay away from beverages that are high in sugar
• Look for foods that are high in fiber and vitamin D as these are both vital for aging individuals

There are also certain habits you should avoid to continue functioning at the highest level. First, don’t skimp on sleep – a restful night’s slumber is essential in keeping the body functioning properly. Also, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Both of these can cause serious health issues in people of all ages.

5 – Sharpen Your Brain
Your mind, like your body, thrives when you push it to the limit. A strong brain keeps you sharp and is a key ingredient for your positive aging recipe. Add games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles to your daily routine so your brain gets the exercise it needs.

Learning a new skill can improve intellect as well. Check local resources, like a university or community center, to see if they offer any skill-building classes that peak your interest. Gaining a new ability cultivates positive thoughts and builds confidence. Not to mention, it’s fun and will leave you with an activity you’ll look forward to!

We told you it was easy to practice positive aging! In fact, you’re probably doing a lot of these things already. Don’t be afraid to ask your Seniors Helping Seniors^® companion for ideas on how to keep a positive mindset as you mature – remember, they’re going through the same stage of life as you are. Incorporate the above Seniors Helping Seniors^® tips into your daily routine and you’re bound to feel great, stay active, and retain your youthful exuberance for life!

Incorporating positive aging techniques into your daily routine might sound difficult, but it’s easier than you think. Of course, our Seniors Helping Seniors^® caregivers will stand by your side, ready to help you create and practice a program that will do your mind and body good!

Now that you know why positive aging is important, let’s discuss five simple ways Seniors Helping Seniors^® care receivers can work the power of positivity into everyday life!

The post Mind Over Matter: 5 Seniors Helping Seniors® Tips For Practicing Positive Aging! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Seniors Helping Seniors® In-Home Care Agency thanks U.S. News and World Report for including us in their story on how to determine if an aging parent needs support. It’s important to be able to recognize the signs that your parent or loved one needs assistance. We were honored to lend our knowledge to this article, and we invite you to read the whole story at the link below! 

Can Your Aging Parent Still Live Alone?
Aging is a fact of life, and for many older adults, there comes a time when they can no longer look after themselves as they once did. Often, the adult children are left to determine when that time comes, and it can be a challenging period for both kids and parents.

While it’s not always easy to know when it’s time, experts say the following signs could mean you need to talk with your parents about changing their living situation.

https://health.usnews.com/senior-care/articles/assessing-aging-parent-cant-live-alone

The post How to Determine if Your Aging Parent Needs Additional Support appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

The Seniors Helping Seniors^® family loves seeing our care receivers enjoy the best parts of each season. With summer fast approaching in the Northeast, it will soon be time to break out the shorts, light the citronella candle, and dust off the patio table for the season’s first outdoor feast!

It can be tempting to indulge throughout the summer months. With family cookouts, vacations, and the urge to spend time enjoying the outdoors in lieu of the kitchen, we often opt for quick, not so healthy choices. A nutritious, balanced diet, however, is important for active seniors all year long.

The good news is, continuing to eat right over the summer months doesn’t have to be complicated. Soak in these four Seniors Helping Seniors^® tips for a summer of healthy – and delicious – eating!

Keep It Balanced

Making good decisions isn’t hard once you know what to choose. Let’s look at the layers of the food pyramid and determine the best foods to reach for and which to skip.

Grains

The foundation of the food pyramid is the grain group, which encompasses things like rice, pasta, bread, and oats. When stocking the cabinets, whole grains are best. Whole grains are made using the entire grain kernel and, therefore, are good sources of dietary fiber, minerals, and Vitamin B.

Fruits and Vegetables

We all know fruits and veggies provide plenty of dietary value, but which are the most nutritious options? Look for produce that is red, orange, purple, and green, as these fruits and veggies contain vitamins and minerals that are especially important to senior health.

P.S. – The Northeast is known for its abundant fruit and vegetable production, so check the local section of the grocery store or visit community produce stands for some excellent options!

Dairy

When choosing milk, yogurt, and cheese products, go with low-fat or fat-free options. Calcium is the major benefit in this group, but dairy products also provide phosphorus, Vitamins A and D, B12, potassium, and more.

Protein

Protein covers a wide variety of foods, including meat, poultry, eggs, seafood, and legumes (like beans and lentils). Look for meat and poultry that’s lean or low-fat and seafood that’s high in omega-3s and has a low mercury count. For a vegetarian meal, substitute legumes as a tasty and nutritious option.

It’s important to mix it up when it comes to protein. Many people eat plenty of meat and poultry, but often skimp on fish and legumes. However, each category has specific vitamins and nutrients that are key to a balanced diet.

Advantages of Sensible Eating

When a variety of nutritious foods are incorporated into a balanced diet, the mind and body will benefit in spades! For example, healthy eating helps:

• Reduce cholesterol
• Lower risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes
• Promote proper bowel function
• Support a healthy nervous system
• Boost immunity and prevent infection
• Encourage healthy eyes, skin, and gums
• Maintain strong bones and teeth
• Improve concentration and attention span
• Increase energy and mental clarity

Preparation Is Key

How food is cooked contributes to a healthy diet as well. During the summer months, grilling is an excellent option and produces flavorful dishes. Better yet, it’s a wonderful time to gather with loved ones and your Seniors Helping Seniors^® companion to enjoy the outdoors and fellowship while dinner is cooking!

Grilled to Perfection

Cooking on the grill is easy and requires little preparation. Simply apply your favorite seasoning combination or marinade and get grilling! As the food cooks, excess fat and oil drip away, leaving a wholesome and delicious dinner.

Try these tips and tricks from Seniors Helping Seniors^® in-home services to make grilling a breeze:

• Invest in a meat thermometer and always ensure poultry is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F and pork to 145°F.
• Cook veggies in foil packets with seasoning and a little oil (extra virgin olive oil or canola are best). Ensure the packet is sealed at the top and place it directly on the grates until the veggies are tender.
• Craving something sweet? For dessert, try grilling pineapple, peach, or watermelon slices for an after-dinner treat!

One of the best things about this method is there’s minimal clean-up required, leaving more time to spend enjoying your dinner companions!

Practice Proper Portion Control

Consuming the right amounts of each food group is important as well. When making a plate, follow these Seniors Helping Seniors^® suggestions for a balanced meal:

1. Envision a vertical line directly down the middle of the plate
2. On the right, add half whole grains and half lean protein
3. Fill the left side with fruits and vegetables (heavier on the veggies)
4. Eat dairy in moderation

Now, all that’s left is to choose a healthy option to wash it all down…

Drink Up!

Staying hydrated is key, especially when summer heat kicks into high gear! Water is an essential nutrient and should be the majority of what’s consumed throughout the day. Try fruit-infused water for a twist on the traditional or sparkling water for something bubbly. Tea and coffee are good options as well and provide several health benefits of their own.

Avoid sugary drinks or those with high salt content and stay away from consuming alcohol in excess. These actually contribute to dehydration and a number of other issues.

Who’s ready to welcome summer?! With these tips from Seniors Helping Seniors^® in-home care services,

The post Savor The Season With Seniors Helping Seniors® In-Home Services: 4 Tips For Healthy Summer Eating appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

April is National Occupational Therapy Month and Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services is taking a moment to champion this life-changing treatment. Occupational therapy (OT) helps people of all ages maintain, or regain, the skills necessary to perform everyday activities.

Similar to its better-known counterpart, physical therapy, OT provides a number of benefits throughout the body. Where the two differ most is in their purpose. Physical therapy focuses on improving pain in one part of the body, while occupational therapy is focused on adapting daily tasks to make them easier. For our care receivers, that means doing more of the things you love most!

Let’s explore the ways this branch of therapy can help our active senior community continue to reap the rewards of an independent lifestyle!

Physical Benefits

Occupational therapy helps strengthen the body by increasing flexibility, re-conditioning muscles, and teaching adaptive movements that put less stress on muscles and joints. Here’s a closer look at the physical advantages of OT.

Enhanced Range Of Motion

As a senior, improving flexibility can change a lot! Stretching allows the body to be less rigid. In turn, this decreases the chances of injuries like a muscle strain or pull. It can also make daily tasks – such as vacuuming, gardening, or walking – easier to complete.

Treatment to better range of motion can include a number of methods. For example, to improve shoulder flexibility, an occupational therapist might suggest seniors complete a series of stretches, practice dressing the upper body, and work on strength training exercises for that area.

Decreased Chronic Pain

When you lead an active and fulfilling life, chronic pain, like arthritis and muscle aches, can really slow you down. Getting support from an occupational therapist can help, however.

To assist with pain management, these professionals demonstrate adaptations for the activities that are most important to everyday life. The technical terms for these strategies include things like reduced muscle tension, ergonomics, safe body mechanics, and neuromuscular re-education. Simply put, these methods are alternative ways to complete tasks with less strain, and therefore pain, on the body.

Maximize Mental Health

The advantages of OT far surpass physical improvements. Cognitive functions like memory and brain capacity can see an uptick as well! It can even help relieve stress and anxiety.

Better Memory And Increased Brainpower

Occupational therapists are trained to evaluate thinking skills in addition to physical abilities. Again, there are a variety of techniques that can be used to improve cognitive function.

Memory-enhancing activities like crossword puzzles and brain teaser games are often encouraged to keep the mind sharp. An occupational therapist may also break challenging tasks down into a series of simple steps and cues, making them easier to complete for those with memory loss.

Additionally, occupational therapists can work with seniors on exercises that improve vision. It might not seem closely connected to memory and brainpower, but enhanced sight allows seniors to gather and process information more easily, benefiting cognition.

Reduced Stress And Anxiety

With age, the ability to perform everyday tasks often declines, taking a toll on mental health. You or a senior loved one might start to feel helpless and depressed due to this loss of function.

An occupational therapist, however, will focus on the tasks that CAN be completed, inspiring seniors with a sense of empowerment! As for weaker skills? OT is utilized to identify these and work to improve them.

Adaptive Living

Ultimately, the goal of occupational therapy is to enable individuals, seniors included, to live comfortably and independently. Improving physical and mental wellbeing is certainly helpful in retaining personal freedom, but OT extends beyond this.

Home Modifications

Not only will occupational therapists work with the body and mind to make life easier, they will also assist in adjusting areas of your home, or that of a senior loved one, with the same end goal. Here are some ways these professionals might alter a living space for better daily functionality:

• Suggest safety improvements, like adding handrails in bathrooms, increased lighting, and clearing clutter from walking paths
• Re-label medications, cooking items, and cleaners so they’re easier to distinguish for individuals with sight loss
• Add visual cues throughout the home to help those with memory loss or dementias navigate and complete tasks

Shared Knowledge

Occupational therapists often encourage family members and caregivers to become familiar with the exercises their senior loved one has been practicing during OT. This ensures improvement doesn’t stop at the end of a session.

The more seniors can incorporate occupational therapies into a daily or weekly routine, the easier it will be to stay physically active, mentally fit, and autonomous. Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers are happy to assist those we serve with the strategies learned through occupational therapy. From helping complete daily exercises to adaptive strategies, we’re here for you or the special senior in your life!

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Joe Steckler, president of Helping Seniors of Brevard County,  often talks about the continuum of care in home care. As a “homemaker companion” company, we are at the beginning of that continuum. Because of our licensing, we are prohibited from doing any medical care. So why write an article on medical? Our clients come to us when they start needing some help. We walk alongside our clients on their aging journey, and we see a huge difference in those that take good care of themselves medically and those that do not.

What we have learned from our clients:

1. Taking medications accurately and on time is incredibly important. Missing medications can be disastrous, cause hospitalizations, early entry into nursing care, or worse.
2. Following up with doctors is equally important. Many issues, when dealt with promptly, are kept as minor inconveniences. Left unchecked, even a minor issue can develop into a major problem.
3. Move.  We notice that the folks who retire and sit on the couch are invariably unhealthier than the ones that stay active and exercise.  Walk, go to the gym, por get in on the new craze that is pickleball.

Our clients who have kept social, exercise, take their medications regularly, and schedule routine visits are much healthier and happier than those that do not.

The Electronic Caregiver

This is one of the reasons we brought in the Electronic Caregiver to supplement our services. Most of our clients are still active and we want to keep them that way. Yes, it is an emergency alert, but it can also be so much more.  The Pro Health series is an easy-to-use health monitoring system that can include several devices: Pulse Oximeter, Glucometer, Non-Contact Thermometer, Blood Pressure Monitor, and Weight Scale. The information from these devices is transferred via Bluetooth to the doctor’s office, care manager, or family caregiver. Trends can be spotted, and medications adjusted, proactively.  It helps people stay out of the hospital and at home, where they want to be. Call us today: 321-722-2999

This article was featured in the Helping Seniors of Brevard Newsletter, conveniently  tucked inside the September edition of Senior Scene Magazine!

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Trusts and Wills

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How Brevard Triad is Helping Seniors

Listen NOW

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Most of our clients have a similar goal, staying safely at home for as long as possible. Unfortunately, many have not considered how to make it happen. A little prior planning can make it possible.

Here are 5 things to consider:

1. Planning for Transportation – Inevitably we must give up our license at some point. We have customers do so at 63, others at 97. Macular degeneration, glaucoma, seizure disorders, and dementia are some reasons why people stop driving. Let’s face it, Brevard County is too spread out for comprehensive public transportation. How do you get groceries or to doctor appointments? Know your options: volunteer organizations, Uber/Lyft, medically based transportation, and home care companies are all viable solutions depending on your need and budget. Be prepared to pre-plan appointments and schedule weekly outings.
2. Planning for Nutritious Meals – It is no fun to cook for one. It’s easy to fall into quick, simple dinners that may satisfy but are not providing nutrition. Meal preparation is one of our favorite services that we provide. Many of our caregivers are also cooking for one and know how to successfully navigate a healthy diet that is satisfying and easily maintained. Prep-cooking homemade meals, shopping for healthy but delicious snack options, learning to hydrate properly, and managing what is in the refrigerator and what should be on the list are just a few ideas.
3. Socialization not Isolation – One thing Covid taught us is that isolation is not good for our emotional health but also our physical health as well. Seniors often self-isolate, choosing to stay home. This lack of interaction puts them at a higher risk for dementia. People really do need people. Stay involved in your church community. Take advantage of free concerts and plays. (Join Brevard County Schools Legacy Club to gain free or reduced entrance to games, plays, and music events near your home!) Get out of the house at least two to three times a week.
4. Home Repairs and Modification – Install grab bars not only in the bathroom but any area of the home where there is a step up or down. Higher seated toilets are extremely helpful. A walk-in shower with a shower chair is ideal but there are companies that can create a “door” to access the tub rather than ripping out the entire bathroom. Get rid of area rugs and clear pathways to reduce tripping hazards. If there are steps into and out of the home, plan for a ramp. Steps to a second floor may require an elevator chair. Take an honest look at your house. If it is too big or there are too many renovations needed, downsize to a one-story home in a 55+ community.
5. Utilize technology – That can be as simple as a robot vacuum! If there are memory issues, automated medication boxes are the answer. A tablet (one of our clients loves her “Grand-Pad”) can let you play games to help the mind stay active and even text or facetime your grandkids! Seriously consider a personal safety device, especially if you are still active. These emergency alerts are not the “Help!” buttons from the 80’s. We provide clients with the Electronic Caregiver, a stylish version that can go anywhere with you; hiking, shopping, or when driving across country. It can provide medication reminders, activity reminders, even Bluetooth your blood pressure to the doctor’s office! It is insurance that you hope you don’t have to use but is truly a lifesaver during an emergency.

This article was featured in the Helping Seniors of Brevard Newsletter, conveniently  tucked inside the June edition of Senior Scene Magazine!

The post 5 Ideas for Aging in Place appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Here at Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care we have a quarterly in-person caregiver meeting.  Each time we include an educational topic, often those topics relate to dementia as many of our clients are on a dementia journey. This spring, as we planned our agenda, we hit upon a “grand idea.”  We are always promoting brain health and early detection for dementia.  What if we were all screened for memory loss?  Each one of our office and caregiving staff, having been through the process, could then freely share their experience with others.  What better way to lead than by example?  We invited some area experts and even expanded our invitation list to area seniors outside our own company. The result was covered by Hometown News writer, Brittany Mulligan.

Early dementia intervention makes a difference

BREVARD COUNTY — A senior organization polled its employees to see how many would take a memory screening test, and just over 50% of them said yes.

This number is huge, according to Seniors Helping Seniors Owner Jennifer Helin, because normally less than 20% of the senior population would agree to such a test.

With a stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, Mrs. Helin wants to stress the importance of early intervention.

One way in which she could help bring about more awareness was by teaming up with Hibiscus Court senior living, Brevard Alzheimer’s Foundation and the Merritt Island Medical Research to put on an event that will include memory screenings and information about dementia.

The event was recorded and shared to Senior Helping Senior’s YouTube and Facebook pages.

“I was so thankful because we had so many organizations come together to do this,” Mrs. Helin said, “and I think we all got a kick out of each because we’re on the same page of wanting to get folks tested early and to get that stigma away from people being tested.”

Joshua Mabry represented Merritt Island Medical Research and spoke to participants about what dementia is, how it starts in the brain, what current medication can do to help and how certain lifestyles can lower your risk of symptoms.

“It was a really informative talk and gives hope, because it’s such a horrible disease that has a bad stigma, and nobody wants to talk about it,” Mrs. Helin said. “Let’s find out early so we can do something about it. We can’t stop it, but we can slow it down.”

Merritt Island Medical Research is offering a free memory screening and blood test that can provide 95% accuracy to whether the subject is predisposed or not for dementia.

Mrs. Helin explained that the blood test is part of the Trailblazer-ALZ 3 study, which tests for a protein called P-tau. She added that this can be a sign of changes in the brain before there are any thinking or memory problems.

The topic of dementia is “near and dear” to Mrs. Helin, who had an aunt suffer from it. She recommends adults as young as 50 years old to get a baseline for their memory and follow up with screenings annually with their primary care physician.

If interested in participating the Merritt Island Medical Research trials, visit mimresearch.com/current-clinical-trials.

For more information about Alzheimer’s and dementia, visit www.brevardalz.org and www.seniorcarebrevard.com

The post Seniors Helping Seniors: Early dementia intervention makes a difference appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Sonnet 73

A podcast where Attorney David Slonim interviews local Floridian experts on Elder Health, Care and Law.

Episode Description

Resources mentioned in the episode:-Their website Seniors Helping Seniors –Florida State Guardian Association –Aging Matters (Grab bars/Ramps) –Helping Seniors of Brevard County –Brevard County Triad (Project Lifesaver)

The post Sonnet 73 Podcast – Featuring our own Jennifer Helin appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Making Good Plans

Good planning makes a difference! Learn from Marisa Mitchell, Medicare Insurance Broker, with My Mitchell Insurance, and Jennifer Helin, Helping Seniors of Brevard as they talk about good planning – and how subject matter experts can help! Chris Morse, Helping Seniors Travel Club, also joins the discussion with how an expert Travel Agent can facilitate the best travel experience – all while saving you money. And, together, they talk up the just announced 2nd Annual Helping Seniors of Brevard Travel Club Foundation Cruise.

For More Information on Marisa Mitchell & Medicare Insurance:
https://lnkd.in/guHhEHPh

For More Information on Jennifer Helin & Seniors Helping Seniors:
https://lnkd.in/guUAkgUB

For More Information on the Helping Seniors Travel Club:
https://lnkd.in/e–XxDg

Radio – Original Airdate 05/25/22 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio
Guest: Marisa Mitchell (My Mitchell Insurance)
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors)
Guest: Chris Morse (Helping Seniors Travel Club)
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors )
Co-Host: John Harper (Helping Seniors of Brevard)

The post HSOBC Radio – Making Good Plans appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Exploring the Different Types of Home Care.

Home Care Experts Jennifer Helin, Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors of Brevard, and Nancy Deardorff, Operations Directory for Helping Seniors, and with 33 years Registered Nurse experience as well as being manager for one of Brevard’s most well-noted Home Health Agencies, share things to know about the different types of Home Care available – and what Medicare can pay for what and when it does not. Learn from the experts along with Helping Seniors Executive Director Kerry Fink.

90.3 WEJF-FM
Radio: Airdate 04/27/22
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors of Brevard)
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors)
Co-Host: Nancy Deardorff (Helping Seniors)
Co-Host: John Harper (Helping Seniors)

The post HSOBC Radio – What are the different types of homecare? appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Changes Ahead?

As we grow older, we think about how our lives will change in our senior years. Some embrace it and plan for the upcoming changes. Many put off planning, sometimes living in a house they can no longer care for or afford, often far away from family.  

Three years ago, my husband and I began having health issues. We were living beachside with a minimum thirty-minute ride to the closest hospital. It got us thinking. Maybe we should be closer to medical assistance and shopping.  Our house didn’t have the safety features included with senior housing and the worry of dealing with hurricanes led us to consider changes.  

Change can be hard…but necessary.

The thought of leaving the beach wasn’t easy. The work it would take to move out of a home we had occupied for 20 years was daunting. We decided to look and see what was out there. We noticed a 55+ gated community and decided to stop in. It turned out to be a beautiful spot, a peaceful oasis that was right in the middle of everything. Medical facilities, shopping, services, and entertainment were nearby. The homes included all the senior safety features, the community had a beautiful clubhouse and pool, and they even do the yard work.  

Facing change head-on pays off.

After much deliberation, we made the decision to build a new home. We have been here almost 3 years and have never been sorry we made the move. Not only did we end up with a lovely new home but with the best neighbors we could ever ask for. Best of all, we are close to both our daughters. 

The moral of our story is, don’t be afraid to embrace change. If your family lives a long distance from you, consider moving closer to them. Having your family to call on is so much easier than trying to do everything yourself. If you don’t have children, move into senior living where you’ll have people near you and activities to keep you busy. Our senior years don’t need to be lonely and boring, go for it! 

Rosemary’s article was featured in the Helping Seniors of Brevard Newsletter, conveniently located in the middle of Senior Scene Magazine.

The post Embrace Change! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

We really do hire seniors…to help seniors!

Watch now!

Learn about great employment opportunities for Seniors at Seniors Helping Seniors as Jennifer Helin, of Seniors Helping Seniors, shares why helping Seniors can be a fulfilling, enjoyable and excellent way to enjoy flexible work with good compensation.

Apply Now

Original Airdate: 05/20/22 SCG-TV
HSTV #279 Checking Out Zon Beachside
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors Network)
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors)

The post Helping Seniors TV – Great Employment for Seniors appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Making A Plan

March is women’s history month, a time to celebrate achievement.  As a woman working in the senior industry, I also believe it is a good time to look at where we are as family caregivers and what we need to move forward in all areas of our lives.  Ladies, if you are not a family caregiver yet, statistically speaking, you will be.

Historically, the oldest daughter was typically in the role of family caregiver for one or both parents.  Today, more than 75% of all family caregivers are women.  Men are providing more care than ever before, but women still primarily fill that role of caregiver either as a spouse or a daughter.  While the average age of a family caregiver is 49, 34% of caregivers are aged 65+.

It’s OK to ask for help.

In other roles in our lives, we would not hesitate to ask for help.  In business we have mentors, take classes to better ourselves and careers.  We seek professionals for our health, various doctors, therapists, or nutritionists.  We utilize financial planners to guide us to retirement.  Why do we think we need to take this caregiving journey on our own?  Yes, we are caring for loved ones but not many of us have been privy to a family caregiver experience before.  Our families are too far apart.  We need to start reaching out to others for support and to learn from their journeys.  It is a good idea to consult professionals in the senior industry to know what to do, and when.  Also, you do not have to do everything by yourself.  Get help so that you can continue to take care of yourself, that way you will be healthy enough to take care of others.  Create a plan, gather a team, and celebrate yourself.  Ladies, you are amazing.

At Seniors Helping Seniors we are often the first step into home care.  We walk together with the family caregiver as a helper, guide, and support.  Give us a call, 3211-722-2999.

This article was featured in the March 2022 Helping Seniors of Brevard Newsletter, nestled conveniently inside Senior Scene Magazine!

The post Ladies! Let’s Make A Plan appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Listen to the podcast!

THIS EPISODE:

Finding the “Sweet Spot” in Senior Living | Helping Seniors Radio

Kerry Fink, Helping Seniors Executive Director, talks with Reverse Mortgage Expert Barbara McIntyre (Reverse Mortgage Funding) and Senior Living Expert Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors) about finding the “Sweet Spot” in Senior Living.

Radio – Original Airdate 09/22/21 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio
Guest: Barbara McIntyre (Reverse Mortgage Funding)
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors)
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors of Brevard)
Co-Host: John Harper (Helping Seniors of Brevard)

The post HSOBC Radio – The “Sweet Spot” in Senior Living appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

Great Living in 2022

Whether enjoying life in your own home, at a luxury assisted living home, or on board a cruise ship, this edition of Helping Seniors Radio has something for everyone on “Great Living in 2022.”

This Episode:

Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors of Brevard County) talks about getting companion care at home effectively and affordably for making life better around the house; Amanda Walker (Hibiscus Court Melbourne Assisted Living and Memory Support Community) explains why choosing luxury assisted living can be an awful lot like hitting the lottery (in terms of getting the help you want at home – a cook, a chauffeur, gardener, and on and on!); and Chris Morse (Helping Seniors Travel Club) and JoAnne Cotterman (Royal Caribbean International) talk up the March 20, 2022 Helping Seniors Spring 2022 sailing, from Port Canaveral, on board the RCL Harmony of the Seas!

Radio – Original Airdate 01/26/22 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors of Brevard County)
Guest: Amanda Walker (Hibiscus Court Melbourne Assisted Living)
Guest: Chris Morse (Helping Seniors Travel Club)
Guest: JoAnne Cotterman (Royal Caribbean International)
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors)
Co-Host: John Harper (Helping Seniors of Brevard)

The post HSOBC Radio appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

New Year, New You!

Starting the new year with some new resolutions?  Achieve those goals with the help of the Electronic Caregiver!  It is not just a safety alert, it is a health monitoring system!  With the Pro Health Series you also get:

This month you can get 15% off monthly monitoring fees and a FREE inner-ear thermometer!

Call us today: 321-722-2999

The post Electronic Caregiver for a Healthy New Year! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Happy New Year!

A new year, a great time to think about where we are and where we are going. Most seniors’ goal is to stay healthy and happy at home. How are you going to reach that goal? As Lewis Carrol said, if you don’t know where you are going, any road will take you there. Instead of a New Year’s resolution, think about designing your aging plan so staying independent and at home happens in the least stressful manner possible.

Starting An “Aging Plan”

When designing your plan there are many variables to consider, so we will tackle just one aspect, home care. Too often I have talked with seniors who insisted they did not need help. Fiercely independent, they put off help of any kind. In the end, this resistance caused accidents, falls, or worse and the senior bypassed home care and ended up directly going to a skilled nursing facility. Sometimes we need to be honest with ourselves and identify what we can and can’t do. Or what tires us out. Or what we just don’t want to do anymore!

Thinking About Homecare

Jumping into homecare can be a little overwhelming, so start with a little at a time. Often, seniors start by hiring a cleaning person. The next step may to be an assessment of the house to make sure it is senior friendly: clear pathways (no tripping hazards), taller commodes, and grab bars in the bathrooms. Look at furniture that no longer fits your lifestyle. Rolling kitchen chairs? Get rid of them! After this, consider having a helper in once a week to help with things that tire you out. Groceries, errands, organizing paperwork, or helping with some laundry. Build a relationship with a home care company that you know you can depend on and trust. At Seniors Helping Seniors we walk along the road with our seniors, guiding our clients to get the help they need so they can stay happy, health, and at home.

The post Starting the New Year off Right appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

HOME BASED SERVICES

Now, more then ever, in-home services are vitally important!  Jennifer talks about the work that Seniors Helping Seniors does to keep area seniors safe and at home.  She also introduces an exciting new company that has helped clients and family stay healthy and at home; Competent Operational Testing Group or COTG.  Listen to the podcast now:

THIS EPISODE:

Home Based Services Make Holidays Better| Helping Seniors Radio

Helping Seniors Executive Director and Radio Host Kerry Fink hosts this week’s Helping Seniors Radio Program on Home Based Services – and how they can help – with guests Nancy Deardorff (Helping Seniors Operations Director); Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors); as well as Felicia Prince and Shenielle Walker (COTG21.com)

The post HSOBC Radio – Home Based Services appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

Our owner, Jennifer Helin and the Helping Seniors of Brevard County team talks about the latest scams from “AARP Robo Calls” to Medicare Scams.  Please be careful not only about the phone calls you receive, but your emails and texts.  Scammers are targeting your smart phone.  Never click on a link you don’t recognize!

This Episode:

Senior Scams/Covid “Long Haulers” | Helping Seniors Radio

Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors) talks about the recent uptick in Senior Scams resulting from Covid 19 isolation and Dr. Kevin Kilday (Holistic Health Center) covers more information the after-effects of Covid-19, often called “Long Haulers” syndrome. Join Helping Seniors Radio Host and Executive Director Kerry Fink for this information Senior Information program.

Radio – Original Airdate 06/23/21 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors)
Guest: Dr. Kevin Kilday (Holistic Health Center)
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors of Brevard)
Co-Host: John Harper (Helping Seniors of Brevard)

The post HSOBC Radio – Watch Out for Senior Scams! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Nutrition with a social emotional boost.

The post Morning Musings – Meals! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

It is August in Florida and it is HOT! Dehydration can become a problem. Did you know that seniors are at higher risk for dehydration than younger people? As we age, we lose water in our bodies, so we have less water to begin with. Dehydration can be subtle, especially in the elderly, but it can cause big problems. Severe dehydration can lead to confusion, urinary tract infections, weakness and pneumonia among other conditions.

Some of the symptoms of dehydration in the elderly are muscle weakness, lethargy, headaches, dizziness, low blood pressure, rapid heart rate and fatigue. In most mild cases, drinking water or even tea can help perk you up after about 5-10 minutes. More moderate cases require IV fluids and a visit to the emergency room. Severe cases may require a longer hospitalization.

We have all heard that old saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. In the case of dehydration, prevention is a whole lot easier than a trip to the hospital. Drinking water and electrolytes (Gatorade and other sports drinks) can take up to 36 hours to fully rehydrate. Some suggestions for preventing dehydration in the elderly are drinking fluids throughout the day instead of large amounts all at once, eating foods high in water (watermelon, cantaloupe, cucumbers, celery, peaches, strawberries, etc…), avoiding caffeine, sugary drinks and alcohol, and eat a healthy diet.

One of the many things our caregivers do is encourage hydration and monitor for adequate intake.  Please call us if your loved one could use a little extra motivation, we’re here to help!

This article was printed in the Helping Seniors of Brevard  County Newsletter, conveniently tucked inside Senior Scene Magazine!

The post Beat the Heat! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Guys, Pay Attention!

Did you know that June is Men’s Health Month? While we all need to be a little more conscious of our health as we age, there are a few things our gentlemen friends should be aware of. For example, the chances of developing cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and hypertension are increased in men as compared to women.  According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention the top causes of death for adult men in the United States are heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory diseases and stroke.

Just like women, men also have hormone changes to worry about.  Men go through a sort of male menopause around the age of 50 when Testosterone levels start to decline. They too suffer mood swings, irritability, lack of enthusiasm/ energy, insomnia/ fatigue, and poor concentration and short-term memory. Decreasing muscle mass can lower the ability to exercise, the results of which are weight gain and fat redistribution (“beer belly”).

How Can YOU Stay Healthy?

The good news is there are many ways to improve our health as we age.  Eat a healthy low-fat diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, get a yearly physical, wash your hands to avoid getting sick, take supplements (calcium, Vitamin D and B vitamins are common deficiencies), manage stress, engage your brain, and most importantly, stay active with cardiovascular and muscle building exercises (walking, swimming, cycling). Or if you like to help others in your community and stay active at the same time, give Seniors Helping Seniors a call. We hire seniors!

This article was printed in the Helping Seniors of Brevard  County Newsletter, conveniently tucked inside Senior Scene Magazine!

The post Here’s to Men’s Health Month! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Stressed Seniors

We picture seniors on the golf course or ladies laughing at lunch.  What stress could there be when you are retired?  Ask any senior dealing with medical issues, insurance bills, Medicare statements, or caring for an ill spouse.  The golden years are not always so golden.

My own mom readily admits that she does not handle stress like she used to.  I’ve heard many other seniors admit the same.  Why?  Physically, heart and lung capacity may be decreased so the body is slower to recover.  Too much stress through the years can throw hormone levels out of balance.  Stress hormones may be harder to regulate, produce more than “required” and take longer to shut down.  According to studies, women are three times more prone to this hormone overload as they age.

Many seniors complain about not sleeping well.  Inadequate sleep prevents the body from fully recovering and worsens our emotional response.  Our emotional rebound may be hampered by the lack of social outlets.  The result of too much stress may be more “senior moments”, increase the risk of dementia, and speed up the aging process.

What can we do?

1. Exercise! It increases endorphins, the feel-good hormones.  It is great for heart and lung health and will help you sleep more soundly.  Exercise is such a great all-around benefit, make it a priority.
2. A positive outlook is a simple but incredibly effective way of fighting stress. A friend always says, don’t have a great day, MAKE it a great day.  There really is power in a positive attitude.  Cultivate gratitude every day, even for the little things in your life.
3. We do not have to do everything exactly the same as we did when we were in our thirties.  Picking on my mom, she is still incredibly active.  I have access to her calendar online and she is busier than I am.  She schedules too many things then stresses how she will get everything done.  Stop, prioritize.  If your huge house is too much to keep up with?  Downsize.
4. Stay social. No matter what age, you still need “girlfriends” or “pals” to talk to.  Laughing, venting, sharing with family and friends helps let stress out and increases our mental well-being.

At Seniors Helping Seniors we often help seniors take a little bit of stress out of their lives.  By taking a few tasks away, we lighten the load.  We provide companionship as we work through our duties and stay positive and uplifting, hoping to be a bright spot in a senior’s day.  If we can take a little stress from you or someone you love, please call!  321-722-2999

This article was printed in the Helping Seniors of Brevard  County Newsletter, conveniently tucked inside Senior Scene Magazine!

The post 4 Ways to Beat Senior Stress appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Radio – Original Airdate 02/26/21 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio

The post HSOBC Radio – Elder Law and Home Care appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

We love supporting Helping Seniors of Brevard County, a vital non-profit to Brevard County.  This Update was taped back in February but the information is still good!   Learn how we are helping our community through the vaccination process and how we are caring for our own caregivers.  We are always looking for caring people who would like the best part-time job they’ve ever had.  That “matching” process really is magic!

The post HSOBC Update – Helping with Vaccinations appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio 

We are hiring!  I was happy to be able to talk about the working opportunities here at Seniors Helping Seniors on the March edition of the HSOBC radio show.  If you know a senior who would like to become part of our SHS family, we would love to hear from them!  “…that response and sensitivity to a client’s needs is why I am grateful to be working for your organization. My visits with (my client) are a joy and have encouraged a sense of purpose for me.”

 

THIS EPISODE:

Great Jobs for Seniors & Covid Updates | Helping Seniors Radio

Radio Host Kerry Fink visits with Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors ) about some great job opportunities, for Seniors, with Seniors Helping Seniors, plus updates on Covid – and staying safe – with Dr. Kevin Kilday (Holistic Health Center)

Radio – Original Airdate 03/24/21 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors of Brevard)
Guest: Dr. Kevin Kilday (Holistic Health Center)
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors of Brevard)
Co-Host: John Harper (Helping Seniors of Brevard)

The post HSOBC Radio – Great Working Opportunities for Seniors! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

What do you get for a senior who seems to have everything?

Trying to find that perfect gift can be difficult.  Especially when the gift is for a senior who has everything they need.  Another bottle of perfume?  Slippers?  What can they truly use?  We’ve all been there.   Here are suggestions that we have personally tried or have been given to us from our seniors or their families.

Gift Ideas

1. Gift Certificate for Their Own “Outside Day” Example: All those projects that had been put off? Make a date for the family to come and spend the day.  Weeding, repairing, or painting a few things, planting some flowers.  Order lunch or dinner afterwards and eat on the porch.  The gift of your time is an awesome thing, even if it is distanced.
2. Gift Certificates for their favorite takeout restaurants. Some seniors are great at online ordering, others not so much.  Take the time to research who in the area they would like, make sure they deliver, and print out a menu to give with the gift card.
3. Dementia related gifts that are good for everyone: Induction Cooktops – Works by induction so only produces heat when the pan is on it and automatically turns itself off after 2 hours. Day Clocks – Displays the day, date, time, time of day, and has five alarm options for medication reminders.  Red dinnerware – allows those with dementia to differentiate what is on their plate and encourages appetite.  Automated medication boxes – the door opens, and an alarm goes off, reminding the person to take that dose, and only that dose.  The Electronic Caregiver – a safety alert that can also give medication and activity reminders as well as track important health statistics.
4. Consider a gift of independence. Here at Seniors Helping Seniors we offer gift certificates for our services.  It is a good way to introduce in-home help to a senior who may be “on the fence.”  We also have a Holiday Helper special that sends a senior in to help with the preparations and the potential loneliness of the holidays.  They can help write cards to family, decorate, or make cookies.  Whatever would bring joy during this isolated time.  Our seniors wear masks, wash hands, and carry hand sanitizer.  To date, our clients and caregivers have remained Covid-19 free!  Please give us a call, 321-722-2999

This article was featured in the Helping Seniors of Brevard County December Newsletter, nestled in the middle of Senior Scene Magazine!

The post Four great ideas for senior gift giving in 2020! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio – October 28th BONUS Episode

We are proud to be able to share the Electronic Caregiver and our new TeleCare program with our radio audience.  Both ways that technology can play a role in caring for our seniors while keeping them social while socially distanced!

THIS EPISODE:

Technology Advances in Covid-19 Times | Helping Seniors Radio

Helping Seniors Marketing & Media Director Kerry Fink talks with Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors) and Dr. Kevin Kilday (Holistic Health Center) about advances in technology spurred on by precautions related to Covid-19 – such as TeleCare, Electronic Caregiver technology and Zoom based Consultations.

Radio – Original Airdate 10/28/20 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors)
Guest: Dr. Kevin Kilday (Holistic Health Center)
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors of Brevard)

The post HSOBC Radio – TECH ADVANCES IN COVID-19 TIMES appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

We are always glad to participate in creating resources and media helpful to Brevard County seniors.  In this episode our owner, Jennifer Helin, joins in the discussion about why a senior resource directory is important and why Seniors Helping Seniors participates.

Safe, trusted care through a licensed company is important!  Also discussed is how our new TeleCare program and the Electronic Caregiver can balance out keeping a senior safely at home.

THE HELPING SENIORS SERVICES DIRECTORY

The Helping Seniors Services Directory | Helping Seniors TV

Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors) and Heather Palonis (Paradise Mobile Labs) join Helping Seniors Media & Marketing Directory Kerry Fink as they discuss the value and benefit of the Helping Seniors “Space Coast Senior Services” Directory to those in Brevard County. The Online Directory is also published monthly in the popular Senior Scene Magazine.

Original Airdate: 12/01/20 SCG-TV HSTV #256 The Helping Seniors Services Directory
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors) Program
Guest: Heather Palonis (Paradise Mobile Labs)
Program Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors Network)

The post Helping Seniors TV! Senior Services Directory – A Great Resource! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

…when coming from other seniors

We are very pleased to announce that Seniors Helping Seniors and Electronic Caregiver were featured in this month’s issue of Everything Brevard.  They came out and took some photos of owner, Jennifer Helin, demonstrating the Electronic Caregiver with Seniors Helping Seniors Caregiver, Jetta.  She and her dog, Daffy, were great sports!  One side note though, Judy Delahoussaye has been with SHS since 2015.  We are grateful to have her with us!

You can read the article here:   EVERYTHING BREVARD

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The Holiday Dilemma

November is National Family Caregiver Month.  It seems an appropriate time since it is the start of the holiday season.  We begin gathering with family over Thanksgiving and continue straight through to the new year.  This time with family can be loving, thoughtful, and create lasting memories.  If you are a family caregiver, it can be overwhelming, stressful, and leave you with feelings of guilt and animosity.  Add the fact that 2020 is unlike any other, it raises many questions.  Is it safe to gather?  Can I travel to see Mom?  Where is the pumpkin for my pie?  How can family caregivers thrive during this season?

What to do…

Within my own family and client’s families, I see it, and I feel it.  To all the family caregivers out there, stop.  Breathe.  You are doing the best that you can.  You run between parents and children, work and home, desperately looking for “balance.” Some days are fantastic while others you want to forget.  I would like to offer you a little advice, gleaned from my own battle with trying to be everything to everyone, as well as lessons learned from our clients and families.

1. Keep familiar traditions. There is comfort in their familiarity.  Do NOT keep them all.  Put only the most prized decorations out.  Make the meal with two favorite sides rather than four.  If no one really eats the bean casserole, why make it?  Simplicity really is bliss.
2. Ask for help. Don’t assume family members know where to step in, or how.  Often, they don’t want to step on toes or feel like they are imposing, especially if the senior is living with a family member.  When my aunt lived in independent living, we would think nothing of popping by.  Now that she lives with her son, we do not swing by unannounced.  Does it need to be planned?
3. Start a new tradition. Maybe having a huge intergenerational gathering inside isn’t a good idea yet.  How about a shorter, smaller, outdoor event?  Can’t visit?  Maybe a Thanksgiving mail-a-thon for your senior, family all sending gratitude?
4. Take care of yourself. The biggest gift you can give your family is you.  But if you are always tired and grouchy, are they getting what they deserve?  Make and keep appointments for the doctor, dentist, and hairdresser.  Get out socially on a weekly basis, even if just for coffee.  As the saying goes, you can not pour from an empty cup.  Taking a little time away may be counterintuitive but it will make the time you spend with family meaningful.

Asking for Help is not Weakness

When working with families with dementia, we advise a team approach.  It really does take a village.  Get help from family and friends.  Hire a caregiver through a licensed company.  Have a back up plan.  Join a support group.  Do not try to do it all by yourself.  You will end up hurting yourself.  Then who takes care of your loved one?

Thank  you!

To all the family caregivers in Brevard, we see you, and we appreciate you.  This month, please take some time for yourselves.  And no matter what they say about the bean casserole, you are the best!

This article was featured in the Helping Seniors of Brevard County November Newsletter, nestled in the middle of Senior Scene Magazine!

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Jennifer Helin is on the radio every forth Wednesday with Joe Steckler and HSOBC Radio.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

October’s Episode

Click HERE to listen.

Helping Seniors Board Member Jennifer Helin guest hosts this week and talks about the role of Seniors Helping Seniors and why it can be a great and meaningful place for Seniors to work. Harry Cohn, one of the great Providers at Seniors Helping Seniors and John Harper, Talk to Me Radio Network Host, round out the conversation. Radio – Original Airdate 09/16/20 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio Guest: Harry Cohn (Seniors Helping Seniors) Host: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors)

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We love supporting a vital non-profit to Brevard County.  This Update is all about their Grand Drawing…coming soon!

Click HERE to watch.

Helping Seniors Update – Wednesday – September 9th 2020 – Helping Seniors Marketing & Media Director Kerry Fink talks with Jennifer Helin, Seniors Helping Seniors, about getting ready for the Grand Drawing in the 2020 Helping Seniors Car Raffle. It happens 10/10/2020 via Facebook Live and YouTube Live from the American Muscle Car Museum in Melbourne FL.

For information on Seniors Helping Seniors
https://seniorcarebrevard.com/

For information on the Helping Seniors Car Raffle
https://helpingseniorscarraffle.com/

Find more information at:
https://helpingseniorsofbrevard.info/updates/

To access the Helping Seniors Directory:
https://helpingseniorsdirectory.com/

Find more information at:
https://helpingseniorsofbrevard.info/updates/

The post HSOBC Update – September Edition appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Last month Seniors Helping Seniors made the announcement of a company-wide partnership with the Electronic Caregiver.  It confirmed what we already knew here in Brevard, Electronic Caregiver has great products with impressive technology.  We began offering the products to Brevard County seniors in December 2019.

The announcement comes at a crucial time, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to prove the biggest threat to the senior community. With an increased demand for Seniors Helping Seniors®, due to more people moving their loved ones to in-home care, Electronic Caregiver will benefit seniors on both the giving and receiving side of care.

Partnering with Electronic Caregiver allows us to continue to offer our services, and with the addition of remote patient monitoring will give families peace of mind that their loved ones are safe, when they can’t physically be there.  It can be as simple as an emergency alert button but also includes GPS monitoring, medication reminders, and activity alerts.  Remote health monitoring is also available with Bluetooth devices capable of monitoring weight, blood sugar, blood pressure, temperature, and pulse ox.

Electronic Caregiver is one of the fastest growing health technology providers in the U.S., offering automated solutions and safety devices nationwide. The company was founded in 2009 with the intention of improving health and safety monitoring and bettering people’s lives. Today, the brand is only a handful of nationwide service providers and has created Addison, the Virtual Caregiver. She is a voice and visual sensing, 3D, AI-based, connected caregiver designed to transform a residence into a digital Smart Health Home.

This article was published in the September 2020 Helping Seniors of Brevard Newsletter, printed in Senior Scene Magazine.

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The Greater Palm Bay Chamber presents “Lifestyle Health & Wellness Week”, September 21-25

We are also excited to announce that our owner, Jennifer Helin, was asked to speak about “Aging in Place” with Chamber President, Nancy Peltonen as part of next week’s event.  Please be sure to tune in all week for great information from a variety of industry experts on all aspects of wellness.  Over the week, topics will include; demystifying cancer, COVID-19 testing, stress reduction, financial wellness, and of course, how to care for aging parents and to making the appropriate aging plans for yourself!

Date: Monday-Friday, September 21st through 25th

Online Meetings: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Location: Online meeting from the comfort of your own location

Please pre-register for the event here: REGISTER

As part of the event we were able to shoot a short promo video.  Here is Jennifer Helin talking about how Seniors Helping Seniors in-home services really does help seniors…to help seniors!

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Click HERE to watch.

Helping Seniors Update – Friday – August 7th 2020 – Helping Seniors Marketing & Media Director Kerry Fink talks with Jennifer Helin, Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Care, about the Electronic Caregiver and how it can make staying at home – or being out! – safer.

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Seniors Helping Seniors® Announces Partnership with Electronic Caregiver

The companion care company that sets itself apart by creating meaningful relationships between senior clients and caregivers is continuing to provide safety and reassurance to the senior community.

 Reading, Pa. — Seniors Helping Seniors®, a senior care brand that employs a mature caregiver workforce, allowing clients to continue to live independent lives while cultivating meaningful relationships, has announced a partnership with virtual healthcare solutions provider, Electronic Caregiver. The partnership will allow seniors and their families to monitor their loved ones safely, at a distance.

“Partnering with Electronic Caregiver will allow us to continue to offer our services, allowing seniors to age safely and peacefully,” said Daniel Jan, VP of Operations for Seniors Helping Seniors®. “The remote patient monitoring will give families peace of mind that their loved ones are safe, when they can’t physically be there.”

Founded in 1998 by husband-and-wife team Kiran and Philip Yocom, Seniors Helping Seniors® believes in providing loving and empathetic care — and maintains that seniors who give, and those who receive, both benefit from The Power of Love®. The announcement comes at a crucial time, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to prove the biggest threat to the senior community. With an increased demand for Seniors Helping Seniors®, due to more people moving their loved ones to in-home care, Electronic Caregiver will benefit seniors both on the giving and receiving side of care.

“We’re creating a one-stop shop for our franchise owners and are providing them with the tools to keep the senior community as safe as possible,” said Seniors Helping Seniors® Executive Vice President Namrata Yocom-Jan. Our mission has always been to Bring Love into the lives of Seniors with Dignity and Respect®, and, through turbulent times, we’ll continue to adapt in order to carry out this mission.”

Electronic Caregiver is one of the fastest growing health technology providers in the U.S., offering automated solutions and safety devices nationwide. The company was founded in 2009 with the intention of improving health and safety monitoring and bettering people’s lives. Today, the brand is only a handful of nationwide service providers and has created Addison, the Virtual Caregiver. She is a voice and visual sensing, 3D, AI-based, connected caregiver designed to transform a residence into a digital Smart Health Home.

“Our technology, paired with a true partner like Seniors Helping Seniors® allows the home care community to better address the needs of the ever-growing senior population,” said Electronic Caregiver Director of Business Development Vincent Melendez. “Now more than ever, early interventions, real-time relevant data, and care coordination are key to aging in place and improved outcomes.”

ABOUT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS®

Seniors Helping Seniors® 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 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® 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® aligns caregivers and care recipients based on the abilities and needs of both by offering a wide range of care services. Seniors Helping Seniors® has grown to over 200 locations in 30-plus states and seven international locations, with 125 franchise partners. For more information on Seniors Helping Seniors®, visit https://seniorshelpingseniors.com/. To learn more about franchising opportunities with Seniors Helping Seniors®, please visit https://franchise.seniorshelpingseniors.com/.

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This article was published in the August 2020 Helping Seniors of Brevard Newsletter, printed in Senior Scene Magazine.

The Heat is On!

It’s the annual summer hydration article!  Proper hydration is an ongoing battle for the seniors we serve, as well as within my own family.  While I may sound like a broken record, hydration is incredibly vital to your health.

Why is hydration so important?  If your body does not have the proper fluid intake you may suffer from:   fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, confusion, difficulty walking, or rapid heartbeat. Dehydration is a very common cause of hospitalization for seniors.  Unfortunately, as we age the sense of thirst diminishes, compounding the problem. Chronic dehydration can lead to urinary tract infections, kidney stones, falls, and exacerbate other medical conditions.  A UCLA study found that 40% of seniors may be chronically dehydrated!

On a Personal Note…

In previous articles I have mentioned my Dad’s ongoing battle with hydration over the last few years. The saga continues.  This spring he ended up in the hospital, despite drinking 64 ounces of water a day, he was still dehydrated.  His sodium was also low.  How could he be dehydrated?  His primary physician suggested that while he may be drinking enough water, Dad may not be replacing the electrolytes necessary for his body to utilize that water properly.  Suggestions include adding a pinch of salt and a splash of fruit juice to his water.  Adding a sport drink like Gatorade or Powerade into the mix, especially when golfing.  He doesn’t care for sports beverages so electrolyte water may be a good alternative.  He is now adding these changes to his routine.  It will be interesting to see how he feels by the end of the month!

Over-hydration

One final note, it is possible to over hydrate.  Too much fluid can cause the salts and electrolytes to be diluted.  Medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, kidney problems, and liver disease can cause over-hydration because they cause the body to hold on to fluids.  It is important to talk to your doctor and find out what amount is right for you.  Cheers to better health and a very happy summer for all of us!

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Jennifer Helin is on the radio every forth Wednesday with Joe Steckler and HSOBC Radio.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

July’s Episode

Click HERE to listen.

Helping Seniors President & Founder Joe Steckler and Marketing & Media Director Kerry Fink  visit with John Roberts, Board Certified Audiologist (Palm Bay Hearing Aid Center) and Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors of Brevard) and they talk that Mask-wearing makes it all the more important to look at hearing improvement ideas when speech may be more difficult to comprehend without visual cues.  Also discussed; the link between hearing loss and dementia,  new amazing technology available with hearing aides, as well as how often to update hearing aides.

Radio – Original Airdate 07/22/20 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio

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Are we still hiring caregivers? Yes!

We really do hire seniors…to help seniors!  During this unprecedented time the need is greater than ever.  Many seniors are afraid to go out.  Families are unable to travel to see their loved ones.  Many who had been considering moving into assisted living facilities have decided to stay at home.  There is a call for safe, reliable, compassionate home care.  If you have been a family caregiver, you understand completely, and the skills you have gained in caring for your loved one is vital to Brevard County seniors.

How are you keeping caregivers safe?

Of course, we provide masks and hand sanitizer.  We provide specific COVID-19 caregiver training on safety and symptom identification.  Each new client is vetted for potential exposure and safety.  Our main goal is to keep our caregivers safe.  By doing so, we keep our clients safe.  To date, we have kept everyone; office staff, caregivers, and clients, COVID-19 free.

What would I be doing?

Each client is unique so their needs will vary.  Often we are providing transportation to a doctor’s appointment, going shopping, or just taking them for a drive to get out of the house.  You may make a meal, remind them to take their medications, clean up the kitchen, and provide great conversation.  We keep you local, within ten miles of home, so you know where everything is and the layout of your local Publix!  We also match your interests and hobbies to those of the clients.  Having something in common is a great starting point!

Have questions?

Please call our office, we would be happy to answer any questions and talk more in detail.  321-722-2999

Ready to apply?

Click here for our online application:  APPLY NOW

The post Senior Caregivers Wanted! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Jennifer Helin is on the radio every forth Wednesday with Joe Steckler and HSOBC Radio.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

June’s Episode

Click HERE to listen.

Helping Seniors President & Founder Joe Steckler and Marketing & Media Director Kerry Fink visit with Jennifer Helin, Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors in Brevard County about the recently reported rise in Covid-19 numbers and how you can find good and safe help at home.

Radio – Original Airdate 06/24/20 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio

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This article was published in the June 2020 Helping Seniors of Brevard Newsletter, printed in Senior Scene Magazine.

Medications & Med Changes

This article is written as a senior advocate, not as a healthcare professional.  As the owner of Seniors Helping Seniors I meet with many seniors and have written down many medication lists.  While some have no medications, others have given me a typed two-page list.  Poly-pharmacy continues to be a problem for seniors, as well as confusion over medication changes, especially after a discharge from the hospital or rehabilitation facility.

Two incidents over the last month highlight the need for better medication management for seniors.  First, a client went to the hospital, then to a rehabilitation facility.  Upon returning home she mentioned having seven new prescriptions to fill.  Seven?  New?  Her hospitalization was due to a known condition, there was no new diagnosis.  We encouraged her to review her entire medication list with her primary doctor to identify exactly what she should be taking.  Were any medications discontinued?  She was confused but was going to fill the scripts and take them without question.

Last month my father went to the ER and came home with a new medication, allegedly the lowest dose.  When the prescription was filled however, my mother noticed it was twice the “lowest dose.”  She called me to discuss and I asked her to please call the doctor right away.  It was the weekend, but an on-call doctor called back and explained that the dose given was the lowest dose for an adult, the smaller amount listed was for children.  Crisis averted; peace of mind restored.

What to do…

Our goal at Seniors Helping Seniors is to keep people healthy and independent.  Proper medication management is crucial in making sure that happens!  We advocate on our client’s behalf with family and medical staff and encourage:

1. Fill prescriptions at the same pharmacy and ask the pharmacist to review the list at least once a year, more so when there are changes.

2. Keep a medication list that goes to every doctor you see.  As you get older, according to my father, you collect doctors.  Make sure they are all on the same page.

3. Ask questions, do not be afraid to ask again if you do not understand what the medication is for or how to take it properly.

4. Consider pre-packaging medications, often a free service by the pharmacy, which puts the correct doses in the correct order, eliminating potential errors.

5. Forgetful?  There are med boxes that will sound a reminder alarm and even run a notification across the TV screen.  Automated boxes that allow only one dose at a time, great for folks who forget and take their dose twice.

If you would like to know more about how we keep our seniors healthy and independent, please give our office a call.

The post Medication Overload? appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Jennifer Helin is on the radio every forth Wednesday with Joe Steckler and HSOBC Radio.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

May’s Episode

Click HERE to listen.

Helping Seniors Marketing & Media Director Kerry Fink and Helping Seniors Board Member John Harper sit in for Helping Seniors President & Founder Joe Steckler and, on this show, they visit with Jennifer Helin, of Seniors Helping Seniors, to talk about getting help safely – and for safety!

Radio – Original Airdate 05/27/20 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio

The post HSOBC Radio – Finding Quality Help for Safety at Home appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Click HERE to watch

Originally aired Wednesday – May 27th 2020

Join us for this update while we are in “Full” Phase One reopening during the Covid-19 precautions. Kerry Fink updates together with Jennifer Helin, of Seniors Helping Seniors, about good resources available in our county – and good safety at home services through Seniors Helping Seniors of Brevard.

The post HSOBC “Update” – May Edition appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Click HERE to watch.

Originally aired Wednesday – April 22nd 2020

Join us for this update while all Covid-19 precautions are in effect as Kerry Fink updates together with Jennifer Helin, of Seniors Helping Seniors, about good resources available in our county.

The post HSOBC “Update” – April’s Edition appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Click HERE to watch.

Originally aired Wednesday – March 25th 2020

Join us for this update while all Covid-19 precautions are in effect. Jennifer Helin, of Seniors Helping Seniors, joins Helping Seniors Media Host Kerry Fink on today’s vlog and together they cover updates to the Helping Seniors Car Raffle as well as services and such available from Seniors Helping Seniors during this affected period.

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Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

Jennifer Helin is on the radio every forth Wednesday with Joe Steckler and HSOBC Radio.

April’s Episode

Click here to listen

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Marketing & Media Director Kerry Fink visits with Jennifer Helin, Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors, and John Harper, Vice President of Helping Seniors, about why Helping Seniors is so necessary during these Covid-19 times.

Radio – Original Airdate 04/22/20 – FM 90.3 WEJF Radio

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Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

Jennifer Helin is on the radio every forth Wednesday with Joe Steckler and HSOBC Radio.

February’s Episode

 Click here to listen 

This Episode: Helping Seniors President, Founder and Radio Host Joe Steckler and Marketing & Media Director Kerry Fink talk with Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors) and Tom Best (Sure Long Term Care) about ways to plan for Long Term Care needs. Radio – Original Airdate 02/26/20 – FM 90.3 WEJF…

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We often work with seniors whose families are not local.  Our office keeps in touch with lots of phone calls, emails, and through our online Family Connect portal.  We thought it would be nice for out of town family to put a face with a name.  Here is a short introduction to the ladies in the office:

Click on the picture below:

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This article was published in the May 2020 Helping Seniors of Brevard Newsletter, printed in Senior Scene Magazine.

The Unknown

Sitting down to write, in the early stages of the stay at home order in April, it is difficult to know how to direct this article.  My hope is that by May when this appears in the Helping Seniors Newsletter, we will be well on our way to “normalcy.”  What our new normal is remains to be seen, but I hope for the best.  One thing I have learned from this pandemic is that we must remain hopeful but prepare for the curve balls life throws our way.

COVID 19 Highlights the Need to Prepare

One of the many reasons why I devote time to Helping Seniors of Brevard is their mission to educate our seniors, help them prepare, and to create a plan.  Never has this been needed more than when COVID 19 came to be.  As citizens of this incredible country, we wanted our federal, state, and local governments to have a plan to keep our citizens safe and informed.  We wanted our health system to have backups in place; to be prepared.

To be fair, we as individuals and families must also have a plan, to stay informed and prepare the best we can.  This has been something of a “soap box” issue for me since starting Seniors Helping Seniors in 2012.  We prepare for retirement, but we do not have a picture of what 85 will look like.  Will I move to an assisted living?  Will I stay at home?  Move back north to be with family?  Who will help me if I need it?

Challenges

No one could have predicted this pandemic, the extent or scope.  We have already responded to many calls for help.  Seniors with no local family, afraid to venture to the store and no means to order online.  Others who relied on friends to take them to the doctor or grocery, but now the friends are too scared to go out.  Private caregivers who stopped providing services because they needed to stay home with their children or were exposed to the virus.  With no back up plan or knowledge of resources, these seniors were suffering.   We helped by running groceries, finding TP donations, and working with Kim at HSOBC to know what local nonprofits were still able to respond during the crisis.

Steps Forward

Once this is over, we need a moment to heal.  To hug people again and let the light shine in.  And then I encourage seniors to have a plan, then create a back-up plan.  Know the resources in your area.  Develop a relationship with a licensed home health agency, visit independent and assisted living facilities.  Have your financial and legal paperwork in order.  I hope we never see the likes of this again.  But if we do, let’s put ourselves in the best possible position for success.

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Electronic Caregiver – 2 May Promotions!

May 1st – 10th  20% Off Monthly Fee

Mother’s Day is just around the corner! Give a gift that shows you care even when you can’t be there. So much more than an emergency pendant, the Premier series includes the Family Caregiver App, Medication/Activity Reminders, and you can send Personal Messages through the system!

May 23rd through 31st – 10% Off Monthly fees and a FREE Cammo Pendant!

Just in time for Father’s Day! So much more than an emergency pendant, the Premier series includes the Family Caregiver App, Medication/Activity Reminders, and you can send Personal Messages through the system! Call now: 321-722-2999 and ask for Riki.

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Electronic Caregiver is offering new clients a 10% discount during the month of April!  They are also including a free Autofall Pendant.  Please call the office and talk to Riki, our Electronic Caregiver Specialist.  321-722-2999        PROMO CODE: SPRING

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National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month, a great time to check in with our New Year’s resolutions.  Back in January I mentioned getting in shape.  I’ve been running and completed my first 5K in almost 20 years!  With my exercise routine in full swing, it is time to look at nutrition.  Specifically, what changes need to be made nutritionally as we age?

A Personal Journey

As someone who has struggled with my weight my whole life, I have tried many fad diets, eaten extremely well nutritionally, and dove into the deep end of the fast food and feel-good snacks.  I have walked through anorexia/bulimia alongside two friends and know the weird relationship we can have with food.  My youngest had many food allergies as a child which forced me to look at food in another way; what we eat affects more than weight gain or loss.  When he started football, I realized (through a good friend’s counsel) that I couldn’t feed him my typical low-fat foods.  He needed the calories and the healthy fats to power him through long practices!  With these experiences I look at nutrition as a big part of keeping me healthy as I age, and something we can do to help clients stay active, alert, and healthy as well.

Aging and Changing Nutritional Needs

It is no secret that as we age our metabolism decreases, and often, muscle mass as well.  The need for calories decreases and we may naturally feel less hungry.  However, the need for nutrients doesn’t diminish. As a matter of fact, the need for some nutrients may be even greater.  As we age the intestines don’t work as efficiently, thus absorbing fewer vitamins and minerals. Sometimes medications can affect the sense of taste and smell, or there may be problems with chewing or swallowing. Physical limitations may prevent us from standing to prepare a big meal.  Perhaps we don’t want to eat alone.  Depression can affect appetite.  For many reasons a poor diet replaces our once nutritious family meal.

Studies link poor diets to diminished mental ability.  Lack of nutrients can cause intestinal issues, muscle weakness, fatigue, pale and/or dry skin, and thinning hair.  This is a common list of complaints.  What if the answer isn’t in the medicine cabinet or something we must “accept” as we get older, but on our dinner plate instead?  What is recommended for seniors?  I am suggesting that many of us need to make a mental shift in our thinking.  Just as I had to adjust nutrition for my son’s increased activity, we need to look at what our bodies need at this stage in our life.  While there are overweight seniors that need to reduce fat, I would like to focus on those more often ignored, the seniors who aren’t eating enough.

What to do…

Let’s walk through this.  You aren’t eating that much so you skip meals but then indulge in sweets and chips.  You are getting calories, right?  Quick foods may be tasty, but they are nutritionally empty.  You need to feed your body and your brain for optimal health and to avoid the chronic illnesses that are associated with aging.  What you eat plays a huge role in diabetes, heart disease, bone loss and cancer.  Not very hungry?  Choose a small meal or snack that is still yummy but also nutritionally dense.  Consider fruit, nuts, or low-fat cheese.  Apples and cheese or peanut butter are great snacks.  My go-to may sound gross, but try it, trust me!  I love low fat Greek yogurt (fruit flavored) with a tablespoon of peanut butter.  That is my new indulgent treat instead of grabbing a cookie or dish of ice cream.  Meal planning may be more important now than ever.  Make a list and plan out breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.  Look at the foods on your list as fuel.  There are quick, healthy options like rotisserie chicken, precooked hard-boiled eggs, and pre-cut frozen veggies.  Should you entirely skip the dessert?  Absolutely not!  As they say, everything in moderation.  I am my father’s daughter.  I love pie and a cup of coffee after dinner.  It’s an occasional indulgence that I enjoy thoroughly.

In addition to what we are eating, let’s look at how.  Stop eating alone.  Invite a friend, have a potluck, go to a senior center.  People eat more when someone eats with them, and let’s face it, it’s a whole lot more fun.  If you have trouble chewing or swallowing, consider seeing a dentist and talk to your doctor.  Sip liquids frequently while you eat.  If you are losing your sense of taste, add more color and texture to your plate to make things more interesting.  (How about adding a few nuts and grapes to a salad?  A little crumbled goat cheese?)

Ask for help

If you are experiencing weight loss, please contact your doctor.  You should also talk to your doctor before starting any new nutrition plan, especially if you need to plan your meals around a specific medical condition such as diabetes or heart disease. Ask about possible medication interactions.  If we can help with meal planning, shopping, or preparation, please contact us.  We have so many beautiful seniors who have already successfully negotiated these nutritional changes and can pass on what they have learned.  Bon Appetit!

The post Nutrition and Aging appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

Jennifer Helin is on the radio every forth Wednesday with Joe Steckler and HSOBC Radio.

January’s Episode:

 Click here to listen 

Helping Seniors Radio Hosts Joe Steckler and Kerry Fink  talk with Seniors Helping Seniors Owner Jennifer Helin about the importance of meal planning and nutrition for seniors.

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Love is in the air…

February is heart health month. We all know what we should do to be physically heart healthy.  How about our heart’s emotional and financial health?  There are lots of scams that target older adults, especially those that are vulnerable after the loss of a loved one.  With the advent of social media and online dating there is potential for social connection, but it also opens us to the potential scams and the emotional and financial toll scams cause.

Online dating?

There are many sites specifically for the 50+, 60+, “silver”, or senior crowd.  While these sites may help connect great people, it is important to go into dating with eyes wide open.  Here are a few things to consider:

Look into senior dating sites before signing up.  Ask friends or family about sites and choose one that fits you.  Do be honest about interests and pictures on your profile.  Do not give out personal information right away.  When agreeing to meet in person, consider a coffee shop or lunch date.  Let a friend or family member know where and when you will be.  Do not connect with folks who are too far away, do not have a profile picture, or get close with someone who will never agree to meet in person.  Never give out financial information.

Scams can be costly.

In 2018, romance scams cost Americans $143 Million per the Federal Trade Commission.  Think it can’t happen to you?  Think again.  Scammers aren’t just on dating sites, they prowl social media, and can pose as a well-meaning care giver.  It is important for seniors and their family to monitor accounts and spending.

Within the last few months our caregivers at Seniors Helping Seniors have spotted suspicious calls and were able to thwart scams targeting two different customers.  If you would like an extra set of eyes and helpful hands, please give us a call: 321-722-2999

The post Guard Your Heart! appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Healthy Heart Month – Health & Craft Fair

Join us Tuesday, February 25th, 9:30 am – 11:30 am, at the Barefoot Bay Recreation Center for a fun and informative day.

There will be refreshments, games, crafts, prizes, and fun!  Please call to RSVP so they know how much food to prepare and how many supplies will be needed. 772-398-4005

Manning the Seniors Helping Seniors Table table will be none other than our favorite senior partner, Rosemary Barton.  Semi-retired, Rosemary enjoys going out and meeting other seniors, passing along the wealth of information she has gathered over the last 8 years as an owner of Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Care^(R).  Rosemary has been and continues to be a family caregiver as well so she understands the needs of a senior and their family.  Come out and ask Rosemary about area resources and what we can do to help!

We look forward to seeing you there!

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Holiday Helpers

Enjoy the Holidays without worrying about all the work.

Know a Senior who needs an extra hand to get ready for the Holidays?

Seniors Helping Seniors® Holiday Helpers are available to help with everything from decorating, shopping, baking, gift wrapping and sending out their Holiday cards.

Call us today at 321-722-2999 to reserve a Holiday Helper and help a friend or loved one enjoy their Holidays without all the work.

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Helping Seniors of Brevard County Radio

Jennifer Helin is on the radio every forth Wednesday with Joe Steckler and HSOBC Radio.

October’s Episode:

Helping Seniors Radio Host Joe Steckler talks with Seniors Helping Seniors Owner Jennifer Helin on various services for Seniors – especially for those, during this program, with limited eyesight.

Senior Care Brevard Senior Care Melbourne In home care Melbourne In home care Palm Bay In home care In home care 32940 32935 – Melbourne, FL 32934 – Melbourne, FL 32904 – Melbourne, FL 32901 – Melbourne, FL 32903 – Indialantic, FL 32905 – Palm Bay, FL 32937 – Satellite Beach, FL 32907 – Palm Bay, FL 32952 – Merritt Island, FL 32940 – Melbourne, FL 32950 – Malabar, FL 32908 – Palm Bay, FL 32909 – Palm Bay, FL 32955 – Rockledge, FL 32951 – Melbourne Beach, FL

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Inspired

I am inspired by stories of seniors accomplishing amazing physical feats.  I keep an eye on a program called “Growing Bolder” out of Orlando.  They tell stories of 82-year-old body builders, 100-year-old runners, and recently a 77-year-old woman who is now the oldest person to sail around the world solo.  Some have always been active, but many picked up their new calling “later in life.”  If a woman can learn to skateboard in her 60’s, why can’t I?

While I’m not sure skateboarding is my thing, I look at these marvelous examples and think, what is my excuse?  If they can do it, so can I.  Now that October is here, and hopefully cooler weather, it is time to get back outside.  I know several people who started walking in 5K races (that’s 3.2 miles) in their 60’s.  They are now running them and loving the camaraderie that come with a community event.  Some of you are thinking, “I’m too old for that.”  Why?  That is the mindset Growing Bolder is working to debunk.  Just because I turned 50 this year, does that make me too old?  At 82 my father is still golfing and fishing.  He walks every morning.  In fact, he walked a 5K one week after getting his pacemaker.  Too old?  Rubbish.

Yes, I turned 50 in July.  Back in January I realized that I wasn’t practicing what I’m preaching.  I didn’t want to start my fifties out of shape and feeling “old.”  I started slowly, doing what I could.  I stayed open to try old and new things like dance, yoga, and walking to see what fit best.  As someone who once ran a marathon, it was humbling.  As I lose weight and strengthen, I find I am happier and have more energy.  I still have more to go, but I see the truth in staying active and firmly believe it can be done at any age.  We need to stop telling ourselves we are too old and making excuses.  Just start.

Here are my recommendations:

1. Consult your doctor.  Really!  It is important to know where to start.  Incurring an immediate injury would not be helpful.
2. Start small and reward yourself for each little accomplishment.  Yes, you used to run marathons but that was 20 years ago.  This is where you are now.  You walked to the end of the block?  Awesome!  It is more than you did yesterday.
3. Have a partner.  It helps motivate you and keeps you accountable.  If you are walking outside there is also safety in numbers.

At Seniors Helping Seniors we often walk with our clients to help them say active and healthy.  We’ve gone to water aerobics, the gym, and even golfing!  If you would like to know more, please call 321-722-2999.

This article was printed in HSOBC Newsletter, conveniently tucked in the October edition of Senior Scene Magazine:

Senior Care Brevard Senior Care Melbourne In home care Melbourne In home care Palm Bay In home care In home care 32940 32935 – Melbourne, FL 32934 – Melbourne, FL 32904 – Melbourne, FL 32901 – Melbourne, FL 32903 – Indialantic, FL 32905 – Palm Bay, FL 32937 – Satellite Beach, FL 32907 – Palm Bay, FL 32952 – Merritt Island, FL 32940 – Melbourne, FL 32950 – Malabar, FL 32908 – Palm Bay, FL 32909 – Palm Bay, FL 32955 – Rockledge, FL 32951 – Melbourne Beach, FL

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With Dorian aiming at our Central Florida Coast, there is no time like the present.  Here are tips to make sure you are safe.  The better we plan the better the outcome!

1. Stock up on batteries and water now. Check your flashlights.  Are they in working order?
2. Who is putting up your hurricane shutters? Securing outside furniture?
3. Have an evacuation plan in place.
   1. Do you live in Zone A? (Barrier Islands, Merritt Island, low lying areas) You are the first to be ordered to evacuate so it is VITAL to have a plan in place.  Where will you go?  How will you get there?  Do not wait until a storm is on the horizon.  Hotel rooms go very quickly.  If you do not have a friend or family member to stay with, seriously consider registering for a special needs shelter.  The application is attached and can also be completed online.
   2. If you live in any other area of Brevard County, you can still lose power or be subject to wind damage or flooding. What will you do if you lose power?  Where else can you stay?
4. Emergency Supplies – Having a checklist to go by before storm helps to ease the process. Stock essentials including:
   1. 3-5 day supply of non-perishable food
   2. Prescription medications
   3. Personal hygiene supplies – soap, toothpaste, etc.
   4. Disposable cleaning cloths (Baby wipes) come in handy when the power is out.
   5. (5) Gallons of water per person
   6. Important papers such as insurance policies, wills, licenses, stocks, etc.

We have learned from the storms over the years that you cannot over prepare.  During Irma and Matthew, hotels were completely booked at least five days before the storm.  Many waited until the last minute to evacuate in hopes the storms would not come, only to be left without anywhere to go.   Make a reservation, you can always cancel.  Please prepare now.  To enjoy peace of mind, have a plan in place that will minimize your stress and anxiety.

While we do our very best to meet everyone’s needs please note that once a state of emergency has been announced our office will have limited services.  We must prioritize our folks in mandatory evacuation zones and those with special needs.  We also need to give our employees time to prepare their homes and our office itself.  Thank you for your patience and understanding during these times.

Please call with any questions.  Our primary concern is keeping our seniors safe.

Senior Care Brevard Senior Care Melbourne In home care Melbourne In home care Palm Bay In home care In home care 32940 32935 – Melbourne, FL 32934 – Melbourne, FL 32904 – Melbourne, FL 32901 – Melbourne, FL 32903 – Indialantic, FL 32905 – Palm Bay, FL 32937 – Satellite Beach, FL 32907 – Palm Bay, FL 32952 – Merritt Island, FL 32940 – Melbourne, FL 32950 – Malabar, FL 32908 – Palm Bay, FL 32909 – Palm Bay, FL 32955 – Rockledge, FL 32951 – Melbourne Beach, FL

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They’re here!  The dog days of summer.  It’s that time of year when I remind you to hydrate.  I apologize if I sound like a broken record, but it is worth repeating.  Case in point, I recently heard from a friend whose 84-year-old mom ended up in the ER due to dehydration.  Her kidneys started to swell, and she was in an extreme amount of pain.  Her blood pressure was through the roof and she experienced hallucinations.  Dramatic results of not hydrating properly.

Avoiding Dehydration

What can we do to avoid dehydration? The easy answer is to increase water intake. Caring for many seniors over the years we know it isn’t always that easy.  The extra trips to the bathroom really are worth it!  Not a water drinker? Milk and orange juice count and may stay in the system longer than water. Try flavor drops, there are many all-natural versions on the market, making water a little tastier. (Sorry, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages don’t count!)   Take advantage of summer produce.  Watermelon has a high-water content, as do many fruits. Tomatoes, zucchini, and squash are great high-water veggies. Create a reminder system to make sure you have gotten your daily recommend intake.

How Much Should You Drink?

What is recommended? Consult with your doctor. Men and women have different needs, medications factor in, and individual requirements vary.  As I mentioned last year, my own dad struggles with how much water is enough.  Over the past year it has changed depending on his medications and health.  One doctor put him on a water pill, another took him off.  He still has occasional dizzy spells.  Is he hydrating enough?  Mom and I continue to encourage (all right, nag) him to drink more.  It’s now part of his morning routine to make sure he has at least 32 ounces before he starts his day.  Incorporate hydration into your routine.  It will be worth it!

If you need help getting into routines with proper meals and hydration, please call us at Seniors Helping Seniors.  We can help!

Printed in HSOBC Newsletter tucked in the August edition of Senior Scene Magazine

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Host Kerry Fink interviews our owner and Certified Dementia Practitioner, Jennifer Helin, about the benefits of having help in the home.

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Life’s Seasons

For everything there is a season. Unfortunately, the season we will all face is often ignored, too painful to consider.  Sooner or later a spouse will pass.

Acknowledging this season is difficult but it can be done.  I recently had two families call for assistance with very similar situations.  They had two different ways of handling the death of a lifelong partner.  The purpose of the article is not to judge these families, but to learn from trials and successes.

Both were gentleman who lost a wife and now faced an empty house alone.  In both situations they retired here to Florida and the extended family lived in other states.  After the funeral, celebrations of life, family breakfasts and dinners, eventually everyone went home.  What then?

Family #1

A daughter in the first family stuck around for several weeks after.  Wanting to make sure Dad would be OK, she had grab bars installed. Not only in the bathroom but in the garage and porch as well. She went to the doctor and requested physical therapy due to vertigo, also ensuring strengthening and balance.  She brought Seniors Helping Seniors in, scheduling three days a week for a few hours not only to help with tasks his wife normally handled, but for companionship as well. As we walked to the car, she told me she knew this was a “make it or break it” time for her dad. He would have to decide where to go from here.  So far so good.  Physical therapy is helping with the vertigo and our visits are helping with tasks and is companionship from someone who is close in age and actually lives in the same community.

Family # 2

The second family needed to leave just a few days after the funeral.  Dad has mild dementia, but his wife covered well.  It is common for out of town family not to realize that there is any dementia because mom and dad compensated so well together.  They thought dad was just grieving.  He was but combined with some cognitive impairment the odds were not in his favor.  The day after everyone left, he drove into the garage door, went out shopping, then fell in the parking lot.  After being bandaged up at the ER he managed to get home (a story in itself) and fall once again.

The neighbors notified the kids. They felt terrible. The keys were hidden, and Seniors Helping Seniors was called in. At the assessment we recommended grab bars and physical therapy.  A team plan was created between the wife’s former caregiver, neighbors, friends, and SHS. Two visits in, Dad was not there.  He gave the kids such a hard time that they told him where the keys were.  They deemed him non-compliant and canceled services.  We let the children know, we felt strongly he needed daily visits for meal preparation, safety, and companionship; he should not be driving until cleared by a doctor. Whether those visits were done by SHS or the other caregiver doesn’t matter, Dad needs help during this season.

What other recommendations?

In both cases I also recommended the Senior Behavioral Wellness program through Health First’s Aging Services. It’s designed just for these situations. Loosing someone who has been with you for 69 years must be extremely hard to process! I’ve had clients recommend the program, tough guys and gals who raved about going and getting their “life back” after a devastating loss. I’m not sure if the family brought it up after I left. I mailed a brochure to the house just in case.

Again, these real-life instances aren’t up for judgement, but for learning. What went right, where can improvements be made?  And when that season comes in my life, what is the plan?

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May is Older Americans Month.  This year seniors are encouraged to Connect, Create, and Contribute.  Working with seniors every day, I get to see many seniors in action; working for Seniors Helping Seniors, volunteering in their community, teaching art classes, and much more.  These vibrant folks are my inspiration.  I love hearing about people in their 90’s who are still playing tennis.  I recently met a woman, who at 79, still works for FEMA!  One of our caregivers, who I have written about in prior articles, turns 86 this year.  Her client recently moved into a facility so she’s off traveling this month.  My family’s matriarch just turned 98, still sharp as a tack.

What do these amazing people have in common?  It’s all in the attitude.  They don’t let a little thing like a number stop them from continuing what they have always done.  Or from trying something new.  They all stay active, connected, and contribute to their community.  They to use their talents to help others but by doing so have kept themselves healthier and happier.

Quick self-check:

Are you staying active?  If not, why not join one of the many senior centers for cards, bingo, exercise, or conversation?  Better yet, get involved and volunteer.  There are social clubs like the 55+ Club of Satellite Beach.  Maybe it’s time to share your hobby.  There are model train clubs, quilting guilds, historic societies.  Volunteering is a great way to spend time with others.  There are so many non-profits in the county you can pick which appeals to you most.  (Don’t forget the volunteer opportunities with Helping Seniors of Brevard!)

If you would like to keep right on working, give us a call at Seniors Helping Seniors.  We hire seniors to go out and help older seniors to stay active, independent, and at home.  It’s a great way to stay connected and earn a little money at the same time.

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THIS EPISODE:

IN HOME CARE GIVING

What are the things to know about In Home Care Giving? How does the process of getting help at home work – is it expensive? are there contracts? what help can I get? All good questions and hear from Industry Expert Jennifer Helin, Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors of Brevard, on this edition of Helping Seniors TV.

Original Airdate: 05/06/19 SCG TV HSTV #211 In Home Care Giving
Guest: Jennifer Helin (Seniors Helping Seniors)
Host: Kerry Fink (Helping Seniors of Brevard)

Watch Helping Seniors TV every day on your television on Space Coast Government TV.  Our Television Broadsast schedule this week:

Watch Space Coast Government TV – Daily
Mornings: Mon-Fri 8:00am-830am
Afternoons: Mon-Fri 4:30pm-5:30pm

Spectrum/Bright House Channel 499
AT&T U-Verse Channel 99
Comcast (North Brevard) Channel 51
Comcast (South Brevard) Channel 13

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Trying to find that perfect gift can be difficult.  Especially when the gift is for someone who has everything they need.  Another bottle of perfume?  Slippers?  What can they truly use?  We’ve all been there.   Here are suggestions that we have personally tried or have been given to us from our seniors or their families:

Gift Certificate for Their Own “Day”

Example: All those projects that had been put off? Make a date for the family to come and spend the day.  Weeding, hanging pictures, repairing a few things, cleaning in those hard to reach places.  Bring breakfast with you, go to lunch or dinner afterwards.  The gift of your time is an awesome thing.

Gift Certificates to Favorite Restaurants

Here’s the twist.  The entire family contributes gift cards to a variety of restaurants.  Whenever someone goes to visit, mom gets to pick a card and away you go.   This is a sneaky way to encourage the younger generation to go pick up their grandparent and take them out!

Dementia Related Gifts

These are gifts that are good for everyone! Induction Cooktops – Works by induction so only produces heat when the pan is on it and automatically turns itself off after 2 hours. Day Clocks – Displays the day, date, time, time of day, and has five alarm options for medication reminders.  Red dinnerware – allows those with dementia to differentiate what is on their plate and encourages appetite.  Automated medication boxes – the door opens, and an alarm goes off, reminding the person to take that dose, and only that dose.

How About the Gift of Independence?

Here are Seniors Helping Seniors we offer gift certificates for services and/or respite care for loved ones.  It’s a good way to introduce services without a huge commitment.

This article was printed in the Helping Seniors of Brevard County Newsletter which is nestled conveniently in middle of Senior Scene Magazine.

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Meet our staff at two amazing community events next week!

Fearless Caregiver Conference

Wednesday, November 14th 10:00 am – 2:30 pm

Location: Holy Name of Jesus Community 3050 N Highway A1A, Indialantic, FL 32903

This conference is first-come, first-serve and you must register.  Please call today as spaces are limited!   The conference includes fantastic speakers, door prizes, and a wealth of hands-on information you can use right away.  A complimentary lunch is included.  Please reserve your spot by calling 1-877-829-2734.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Red, White, and Boomer – Boomer Bash & Senior Expo

Thursday, November 15th, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Location: Veterans Center and Museum, 400 Sykes Creek Parkway, Merritt Island, FL

No reservations required for this red, white, & blue themed expo. There will be loads of resources and a lot of fun:

• Live Entertainment by Marc Dobson, “The One-Man Band”
• Dress to impress in your Red, white, and blue – win King Center tickets & other prizes
• Free rides on Atlas Sun Trikes through the Veteran’s Park Trails
• Model Shoot – Get your photo taken and be eligible to be featured in next year’s Boomer Guide
• Tour through the museum’s memorabilia; medals, tanks, vehicles, uniforms, aircraft, weapons
• Coffee Bar, Popcorn, Dessert Bar, BBQ Food truck

The post Seniors Helping Seniors – Out in the Community appeared first on Seniors Helping Seniors.

Seniors Helping Seniors Participating in the Fearless Caregiver Conference

Jennifer Helin, Certified Dementia Practitioner, will host a table at the conference.  She and members of our team will be available to answer questions and problem solve issues that many family caregivers face. Please stop by and see what a difference Seniors Helping Seniors ^(R)  in-home care can make!

The conference will include fantastic speakers, door prizes, and a wealth of hands-on information you can use right away.  A complimentary lunch is included.  Please reserve your spot by calling 1-877-829-2734.

We look forward to seeing you there!

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Recently I had the opportunity to sit down with Joe Steckler of Helping Seniors of Brevard County, a local non-profit specializing in providing resources and education to area seniors.  He and I taped a TV program about one of my “soap-box” issues, planning ahead for the possibility of needing care as we age.  We plan for retirement.  We make out wills and prepare estate plans, name a power of attorney, an executor.  Why don’t we plan for our needs as we age?

Why plan for care?

It is arguably more emotional than end of life planning.  Thinking about needing help in our daily lives, losing our driving privileges, or needing help in the shower is just too overwhelming to put your head around.  Many don’t.  There are often two outcomes.  First, a sudden accident or illness causes a hospitalization and the need for immediate care.  Quick decisions must be made.  If you are really sick, others are making those decisions for you.  It may or may not be what you want.  I see adult children making tough decisions based on what they think their parent will want and need, only to have their parent upset since they had no say in the matter.  That’s not fair for either.

The second outcome of lack of planning is the product of continuous denial.  It can be subtle, or a very steadfast “I don’t need help at any cost” attitude.  Sadly, this outcome often results in a steep slide into a reclusive lifestyle with cycles of hospitalizations, rehab, home health, and back again.

• A real-life example: we cared for a couple from the New England area.  Steadfastly independent.   She had early stages of dementia and was frail.  He was healthy and devoted, trying to make sure she was cared for.  It was too much, and he suffered a stroke.  The family brought us in but after a week and a half the couple said we were not needed.  He forgot to take his medications, they did not eat well, and he suffered another stoke.  The cycle repeated.  After three strokes, progressively affecting him more negatively, he passed away.  She declined as well and without him there, required 24/7 hands-on care.  We firmly believe that if we had been allowed to help, we could have kept them well with minimal “intrusion”.  They just did not want anyone there and they had the right to refuse it.  It’s frustrating for all involved but happens all the time.

Plan now, before it is needed.

Take a big breath.  Grab a cup of tea.  Have the conversation with yourself and/or with your family.  Decide what you can deal with if you had to stop driving.  If you need at-home help, what would that look like?  Can you prepare your home now with simple modifications to age in place? Would you be open to move to an independent or assisted living facility?  Visit a few, get an idea of what’s out there and what would be an acceptable location and environment.  Once you have the plan, you can relax.

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August 21st – Help us celebrate Senior Citizen’s Day!

How it started…

Originally observed on August 14^th, the day Roosevelt initiated the Social Security Act in 1935, Ronald Reagan officially proclaimed August 21^st as National Senior Citizen’s Day.   It’s a day to honor those who have gained the wisdom that comes with experience.  They have paved the way, broken barriers, endured.  Let’s take time out today to say thank you for their contributions.

What to do today…

Spend time with family.  Take mom, dad, grandparent, aunt or uncle out to breakfast or lunch.  Listen.  Ask them about their first job.  What did they learn from their parents?  What was their favorite part of their childhood?  Seniors have amazing experiences to share.

Go to a nursing home or assisted living and volunteer.  Help with an activity, read a book, sing a song, play games.  You’ll brighten someone’s day and you’ll leave feeling uplifted as well, a win-win!

If you are a senior, get out of the house and have fun.  It’s your day!  Try something new.  Go to a local park or museum.  Volunteer at a school or library.  Share your knowledge.  Revel in the fact that you have earned your opinions and have more to give than you may know.  Shine!

Keep an eye on our Facebook page to find out more local events and where we’ll be that day!

https://www.facebook.com/SeniorsHelpingSeniorsBrevard/

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Hot summer days bring nostalgic images of lemonade stands and picnics. The reality of living in Florida?  Running from A/C to A/C and planning outings early in the morning or post afternoon thunderstorms.  Dehydration is also a reality, more so for seniors than any other time of year.  As we age our body is less able to perceive thirst and to regulate temperature.  Many common medications increase water loss.  Add our reluctance to increase trips to the bathroom, especially at night, and it’s easy to see why studies estimate over a third of seniors are chronically dehydrated. The increase in temperatures over the summer and the lack of adequate A/C pushes many into the “danger zone” of urinary tract infections, increased fall risk, dizziness, irritability, and fatigue.

What can we do to avoid dehydration? The easy answer is to increase water intake. Caring for many seniors over the years we know it isn’t always that easy.  Not a water drinker? Milk and orange juice count and may stay in the system longer than water. Try flavor drops, there are many all-natural versions on the market, making water a little tastier. (Sorry, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages don’t count!)   Take advantage of summer produce.  Watermelon has a high-water content, as do many fruits. Tomatoes, zucchini, and squash are great high-water veggies. Create a reminder system to make sure you have gotten your daily recommend intake.

What is recommended? Consult with your doctor. Men and women have different needs, medications factor in, and individual requirements vary.  For instance, my father increased his intake to 32 oz. a day.    The result was a decrease in light-headedness and fatigue with better kidney function.  Shortly after he ended up in the hospital (unrelated) and to our surprise they had to give lots of fluids. As a result, his doctor increased him to 60 oz. This was too much, negatively affecting his electrolytes. The doctor backed it down to 40 oz. and that seems to be his sweet spot.  What’s yours?  It’s hot out there. Hydrate!

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The Legacy Club is an active, informative, and engaging club for Brevard County residents 55 and better.  Each year the club hosts the Legacy Fair at the School Board in Viera, bringing together an array of resources, guest speakers, free lunch, and door prizes.  This year’s speaker will be Matt Susin, District 4 Board Member.  Matt is a former state and national teacher of the year.  Now a businessman, he sits on the Economic Development Council and the Space Coast Tech Council.

Our own Jennifer Helin will also be in attendance, handing out much more than our beautiful blue Seniors Helping Seniors ^(R) market bags.  Jennifer and our team have accumulated a wealth of knowledge of area resources, from non-profit to medically based businesses.  She will also hand out advice.  When is it time to have help?  What type of help do I need?  How can I prepare so I can stay in my home?  As a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Jennifer can also help work through the “interesting” situations dementia can sometimes bring.

Sponsored by Brevard County Public Schools, club membership is free, and includes free and reduced admission to sports and arts & entertainment events within the school district.  Free classes are also held at various locations throughout the county.  There are lunch & learns, AARP Driver Safety Classes (helps save on insurance!), healthy cooking classes, and so much more.

Please join the Legacy Club and join us at the Fair!

Friday, June 29th 10:00 am – 12:30 pm

2700 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera

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Join us this Friday, June 15th for the annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Fair

Melbourne Auditorium

10:00 am to 1:00 pm

**Free Breakfast & Lunch**

Seniors Helping Seniors ^(R) In- Home Services will be there, please stop by and say hello!  There will be lots of local resources including businesses, non-profits, local pharmacies, and law enforcement.  Breakfast and lunch will be served and there will be many “give-aways”.  Please wear purple to show your support.  Together we can raise awareness and prevent elder abuse!

The first Elder Abuse Awareness Day was announced in June 2006 at the UN Headquarters in New York.  Since then there have been events around the world, including right here in Brevard County, FL.  “The key objective of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is to raise awareness of elder abuse (which encompasses neglect and mal- or mistreatment) throughout the world.”  To find out more, please visit https://www.inpea.net/weaad/.

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BREVARD COUNTY — Rosemary Barton has been known to break the glass ceiling and after dedicating her life to being a positive example for women everywhere, she’s ready to retire, kind of.

“I’m ready to partially retire, I’m not totally retiring,” Mrs. Barton said. “I feel that my husband and I are at a point in our lives where we’re still fortunate enough to be healthy and there are places we would like to go and travel, and I want us to have that special time together.”

Yet Mrs. Barton still plans to make time to assist in the running of Seniors Helping Seniors, a franchise she and her daughter, Jennifer Helin, co-own; just on a more flexible schedule.

“I want it to be something where I can go out and do things that I think will be helpful,” Mrs. Barton explained. “One of the things that I’d really like to do, that we don’t have enough time to do, is just to pop in to our customers to say ‘hi’ and let them know that we care about them, and we’re thinking about them.”

The mother-daughter duo started Seniors Helping Seniors, an in-home care service for seniors by seniors, six years ago in Melbourne after seeing a real need in the community.

“We had taken care of our own family, mom and I, and we saw the wisdom of having a senior go in,” Mrs. Helin said. “We saw the need for flexible care. We could be around most of the time, but there were times when we needed a little bit of help here and there, and there was nothing out there to do that.

“I happened to see an ad for the franchise and thought, ‘I wish I thought of that,’” she continued. “I checked into it and fell in love with it so much so that I thought it’s too good to be true. So, I gave it to mom because she had been in insurance for 25 years as a businesswoman, so I had her dot the ‘I’s’ and cross the ‘T’s’ and she fell in love with it too.”

Although she plans to go into a partial-retirement, Mrs. Barton said she still plans to co-own the business and give her daughter advice “whether she wants it or not.”

Mrs. Barton moved down to Melbourne Beach 20 years ago. Previous to her work as a concierge at the Windsor Club in Vero Beach, Mrs. Barton had retired from a career in Gannon Associates, Inc., an insurance agency in which she rose to become a licensed agent and retired as the company’s vice president.

During her time at Gannon Associates, Mrs. Barton went back to school in order to earn a CPCU certificate.

“I loved working in that field,” Mrs. Barton said. “I worked at an interesting time because when I started in insurance, there were no ‘insurance ladies’ it was always your ‘insurance man.’ So when I started, I was basically told that I would not be a success because I was a woman. So I had a lot of hurdles to cross to prove that I could do the job.”

But even before she was making victories by paving a way in the “man’s world” that was insurance, according to Mrs. Barton, she started out on Wall Street as a summer clerk at the age of 16. At the end of her five years working there, she was a secretary to a senior partner of the company.

“Back at that time, you could never go any further than that,” Mrs. Barton said.

During her time in high school, there were limited occupations for women to choose after finishing school, such as secretarial school, nursing, state teachers college or perhaps could work in the insurance and stock market.

“I think she is fearless in a very positive way, and she always brings people up with her,” Mrs. Helin said about her mom. “She won ‘Woman of Excellence’ a couple of years ago and that truly embodied her because she has always reached out and helped all of the women around her. She didn’t let the male-dominated world stop her.”

For more information, visit seniorshelpingseniors.com.

Article found in Hometown News, author Brittany Mulligan 

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My husband and I have been blessed with good health for many years.  So, when we both began having health issues last winter we learned some valuable lessons.  Our first lesson was to listen to our own bodies.  If we are honest with ourselves, we know when something is not right.  In my husband’s case, he went into complete denial, and blamed his symptoms on the holidays, etc. etc.  When he finally passed out behind the wheel, and we headed straight to the E.R., we discovered that his heart was beating at 32 beats per minute.  Not good!  A pacemaker was the answer, and he is doing great now, but a panic E.R. visit could have been avoided had we paid better attention to his symptoms.

The second lesson we learned is truly one of denial.  I was driving up I 95 on my way to a marketing appointment, when my chest felt like waves were going across it.  I blamed it on a little tension, and kept going.  When I arrived at my appointment, a nurse on duty took my blood pressure, and wanted to call 911.  I was in A fib.  No, not me, she had to be wrong.  On our way to the E.R., I even had my daughter stop at a fire station to do an EKG because I was sure the nurse was overreacting.  I ended up in the hospital for three days, and it took 24 hours to bring my heart back into normal rhythm.   Just because you are a very healthy person, it does not mean that things can’t change.  Again, listen to your body.

Another lesson learned is to be cautious when you are given a new prescription.  Before you take the first pill, list all of your meds, both prescription and non prescription in your computer, and see if there will be any interactions between your current meds, and the new one prescribed.  I was given an antibiotic by my physician who has a complete record of all my meds.  I took the first pill that evening and suffered hallucinations during the night.  We searched online and checked out my meds the following morning, and sure enough, the cause was an interaction between the antibiotic, and my low dose aspirin and Vitamin E.  Even though your doctor and the pharmacy have a list of all your meds, it doesn’t mean that they take the time to check for drug interactions.  Sometimes, you are your own best physician.

Lastly, listen to your doctor and your family when they are concerned about the chance you might take a fall.  This past week, our office received three calls regarding a client who had fallen at home and are now facing both hospital and rehab stays.  Two of these clients spent two days on the floor before they were found.  When you are told to use a cane or walker take it seriously.  If you are living alone, make sure you have a life alert necklace or bracelet, and make sure you wear it.  Whenever we do an assessment, we ask people if they have a life alert.  Most of them say yes, but it is in the draw.  Your nightstand is not going to mosey over to where you have fallen, so you can sound the alarm!  If your family has purchased one of these devices to keep you safe, thank God they are interested in your welfare, and wear it all the time.   Falls are the biggest problem for seniors, and the cause of many hospital stays, so be smart, and stay healthy.

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When is it time to have help?

At Seniors Helping Seniors^(R) in-home care we consider ourselves the first “rung” on the ladder of care.  We are often the initial support someone has in their home.  How does someone decide it is time?  We see a few folks who start services a little early, those that are right on time, but unfortunately, too many that start too late.

What is too late?  The couples or individuals that wait, wanting to stay independent as long as possible and refuse help, ending up suffering in the long run.  They insist they can do it all themselves but run themselves ragged in the process.  Worn down, they are at a greater risk for falls.  They eat simple, quick meals that can be full of added salt but provide little nutrition.  Isolated within their home they lose social contact, miss doctor appointments and lose track of medications.  One hospitalization leads to another and a downward spiral begins. It’s not a happy story but one we see all too often.

So, when is it time?  If you can no longer drive, start services.  If it takes three days to clean the house and you are wiped out for the next three, it’s time.  Have someone come in and do the jobs you no longer like doing.  They can make meals, clean up, help keep things organized. Start with a little.  Work up as needed.  Get used to having someone around when you have the opportunity to decide if you like them.  Try services out to see what works.  Having a little help now can prevent requiring a huge amount of help later.  Take charge by taking care of yourself.

This article was published in the November 2017 edition of the Helping Seniors of Brevard County newsletter which is nestled in the middle of  Senior Scene Magazine.

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May 2017 Article

May is Older American’s Month. This year’s theme is “Age Out Loud.” It’s a nod to the changing attitudes about aging in America and the need for our voices to be heard.

While AARP membership starts at 50, a 2010 survey of Baby Boomers said that the term Senior Citizen didn’t describe them. Boomers thought a senior was someone between 78 and 80. I know an 84 year old that would debate that! She is an extremely healthy and vibrant part of our Seniors Helping Seniors family. She has a positive impact on everyone she works with. Her voice that of an “older American,” is one of hope and concern. Living in Palm Bay, she understands the challenges of seniors in the area regarding transportation, the availability of Meals on Wheels, and the lack of knowledge about resources available in our county. She advocates with us for those she cares for, the perfect example of aging out loud.

It is time for all “older Americans” to advocate for themselves. We need to encourage our federal, state, and local government leaders to continue to fund programs for seniors and to keep senior issues in the forefront. We also need to encourage one another. A number does not make you old. Stay active, engage the community around you; we will all be richer for it. If you would like a way to stay active and give back, consider working with us here at Seniors Helping Seniors. We are specifically looking for folks in the Rockledge, Cocoa, and Cape Canaveral areas that would like to work part-time. Please give the office a call at 321-722-2999.

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