The FirstLight Care Corner

Fun Things To Do for Labor Day

From our Care Blog

So, it’s almost here.  The official end of summer is marked by the long Labor Day weekend.  What exactly are we celebrating on Labor Day?  The name seems to be pretty self-descriptive, but often times it’s easy to not really think about what the holiday is really about.  Let’s be honest, most of us are just grateful for a day off of work. According to Wikipedia, Labor Day is an American federal holiday observed on the first Monday in September that celebrates the economic and social contributions of workers.  Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American...

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Men Are Caregivers Too

From our Care Blog

A couple of weeks ago I wrote about a long-time friend of mine who had been caring for his elderly mother.  My blog entry was also about how FirstLight Home Care is meeting the needs of aging America, and an unfortunate lack of awareness surrounding caregiving options. This week however, I want to circle back to the fact that my friend Dave* (a male obviously) was in a caregiver role for his mom.  Dave* is not alone in having that title.  According to a National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) survey, 44% of caregivers are men.  Yes, I said 44%, and...

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Seniors Go Back to School Too!

From our Care Blog

Guest Blogger: Julie Grannan August can be a bittersweet month, especially when you are a kid.  The summer is coming to an end, the local pool has closed up even before Labor Day weekend hits, and it’s back to school time.  But wait…back to school time for many kids is such an exciting time!  As Italked to my sister the other day about my nieces heading back to school this week, I vividly remember going to orientation day in grade school with my mom and siblings.  This was the day where you ran as fast as you could to view...

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Seniors surf the web like pros!

From our Care Blog

Just last week I received an email from my 82 year old grandpa telling me to click on a LINK to his new WEBSITE that promoted a book he wrote.  Yes, I am completely impressed that he wrote a book at the age of 82 but I am even more impressed with his use of technology and the internet at the age of 82. The use of technology and the internet by seniors is ever growing.  The use of technology can be frustrating for seniors since technology industries cater more toward a younger crowd and can make it difficult for...

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Diabetic Care: five ways to avoid complications.

From our Care Blog

Diabetics and those caring for diabetics know and understand the severity of this disease.  When living with diabetes it is important to also understand the care needed to prevent any complications.  Diabetes has the ability to wear down our bodies over time; this chronic illness requires constant  awareness.   Here are five ways to avoid complications with diabetes: Stay up to date with diabetes information.  Become an expert of the topic, medications, interventions, symptoms, complications, and new research and treatment. Maintain blood pressure and cholesterol levels since both can aid in blood vessel deterioration.  A healthy diet and exercise can...

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How to Keep Loved Ones Safe in a Heatwave

From our Care Blog

Temperatures topped 100 degrees in many places across the country this week. In extreme heat, especially with high humidity, safety for our seniors is very important. At FirstLight Home Care, our mission is to keep seniors safe, healthy and happy in any conditions. Extreme heat can lead to heat stroke, heat rash or heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include feeling tired or confused, headaches, dry skin (no perspiration), a rapid pulse or feeling nauseous or dizzy. If you or a loved one have any of these symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Stay in air conditioned areas....

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How to Know When It’s Time to Hire In-Home Care

From our Care Blog

By Julie Davis of Parentgiving.com Caregiving is one of the most loving and one of the most stressful roles you can take on. You may be motivated by many influences, from a sense of caring to a sense of responsibility. But no matter what has brought you to this role, it’s important to understand that your loved one’s crisis can turn into a health crisis for you if you don’t build a network of help and support. You can’t be there every minute, even if help is needed around the clock. Because most people want to stay in their own...

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Working Later In Life

From our Care Blog

This year there are over seven million workers aged 65 and older. Just 15 years ago, that number was half of what it is today. With a struggling economy, many workers are losing their jobs close to retirement age and looking for new careers to start later in life. Other reasons for postponing retirement range far and wide, but include people who aren’t emotionally ready for retirement, those who feel an economic responsibility to contribute, longer and healthier life spans, or financial concerns. An increasing number of older workers are also part of the “sandwich generation,” providing care for their...

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16 Ways to Enjoy the Summer Season with the Senior in Your Life

From our Care Blog

With vacation times and the kids out of school, it may be hard to think of fun things to do with seniors. Of course, it can depend on the weather, where you live and the level of mobility of the senior. However, it’s important that seniors continue to be as mentally and physically active as possible. At FirstLight Home Care, we interact with seniors daily – here’s some fun things to keep the boredom away: Watch the sunset or sunrise. Because many seniors do not sleep as long, they can be early birds. Bring their favorite coffee or donut and...

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What is Veneration?

From our Care Blog

By definition, veneration is the expression of respect or reverence inspired by dignity, wisdom, dedication or talent, often of an elder. Veneration is also a new initiative with an aim to raise awareness of aging Americans, find connections to other generations, find solutions to the challenges facing older adults and rebuild the dignity that our elders deserve. The Veneration Project was incorporated in 2011 by two sisters, Adina and Sara Saoerstein, who had to care for their mother at a young age. They had no support as they navigated through the complicated legal systems and home care options for their...

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