Understanding
Senior Care

In-Home Care or Assisted Living?

From our Care Blog

In-home care vs. assisted living can be a difficult choice. Many families faced with the decision on which is best for their aging loved one might not even be sure of the differences between the two. Determining the best place for aging parents or loved ones to receive the care they need to live a vibrant and independent life will depend on individuals needs and care requirements. With in-home care, a caregiver is hired to come into the home to help with activities of daily living. Home care offers companion care and personal care services to help seniors maintain their...

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Respite Care for the Dementia Caregiver

From our Care Blog

I just don’t know when I’m going to have time to get all my errands done. It would be so nice to take a long walk. Or even a long nap! I really wish I could spend some time catching up with my friends. If you’re a dementia caregiver, you may have spoken these words a time or two. And for good reason! Everyone deserves a break, especially those family caregivers who devote so much time taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Enter respite care for the dementia caregiver… Respite care allows you to take temporary time...

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Protecting Your Parent from Common Senior Scams

From our Care Blog

National Senior Citizens Day is August 21st National Senior Citizens Day was first celebrated in 1988 as a result of a proclamation signed by President Ronald Reagan. Each August 21st, people from across the United States celebrate, recognize, and support senior citizens for their contributions to the community. National Senior Citizen Day is also aimed at raising awareness for the safety of our senior citizens, both economically and physically. Unfortunately, the senior community is often targeted by scammers searching for sensitive, personal information. This is why it’s important for us to educate and raise awareness among seniors and family caregivers,...

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10 Inspiring Quotes for {Caregivers}

From our Care Blog

Caring for another person is selfless and quite rewarding. But it also can be a heavy responsibility, whether you're a family member caring for a loved one or a professional caregiver working with a client. Oftentimes the stress that comes with being a family caregiver can make it difficult to maintain a positive attitude. Here we share 10 inspirational caregiver quotes to help bring comfort, joy and positivity to all the caregivers out there who may need a little inspiration from time to time. Do you have a favorite inspirational quote? Comment here or head to the FirstLight Facebook page...

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Recommended Vaccines for Older Adults

From our Care Blog

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, an annual observance to bring awareness to the importance of vaccines for people of all ages. Immunization Awareness Month was established to encourage people – young and old - to make sure they are up to date on the various vaccines recommended for them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that all adults need immunizations to keep them from getting and spreading serious diseases that could result in poor health, missed work and not being able to care for family or themselves. Older adults may need one or more vaccines, even...

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Healthy Eating for Seniors on a Budget

From our Care Blog

When your monthly financial budget is tight, meal planning and grocery shopping can be challenging. For many seniors who are on a fixed income and need to watch their overall expenses, eating healthy on a set budget can be tricky. Here are 9 great tips to help you or your aging loved one eat well and stay on budget: Plan Meals Around Store Sales: Many times, healthier food options cost more. If your local grocery store offers a savings or loyalty card, be sure to sign up and check the weekly circular to see what's on sale. Instead of shopping...

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Benefits of Companion Care - for Seniors, Vets, and Adults with Disabilities

From our Care Blog

A wide range of companion care services is offered at home, in the hospital, or in healthcare facility settings. Whether you need elderly companion care services, senior care services, or 24-hour care for a loved one who is elderly, chronically ill, recovering from surgery, or living with a disability, there are overall happiness and quality of life benefits, for the entire family, when adding a companion care provider to your day-to-day life: A companion care provider can handle daily needs: such as light cleaning, bathing, and keeping seniors, veterans and adults with disabilities safe from harm. They can ensure that...

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Living Independently After Age 65

From our Care Blog

The number of American seniors is expected to reach 70 million by the year 2030, according to the U.S. Census. AARP reports that as many as 90% of people over the age of 65 are focused on living independently and live in their home for as long as they can. We get it. Living independently has its perks, including staying in the comfort of your home with all its amenities, maintaining your privacy, and continuing to do the things you love. There is no doubt the aging-in-place movement promotes senior self-reliance! Advancements in technology, home modifications, and in-home senior assistance...

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5 Things to Consider Before Becoming Your Parent’s Caregiver

From our Care Blog

Each year, more than 43 million Americans provide unpaid care to a family member, usually a parent. Most seniors prefer to age in place, but as they grow older and face declining health, they may need extra care at home. In many cases, their children decide to step in and become the caregiver. Serving as a caregiver for a family member is one of the most rewarding jobs you can do. It allows you to spend time with your loved one, and it provides you with the opportunity to ensure they receive the best quality care possible. Every day, adult...

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Helpful Travel Tips for Seniors Adventuring Abroad

From our Care Blog

It’s official. Summer is here. It’s time to pack up the suitcase and travel to fun places or family you want to see. There are certainly no age limits to travel! And AARP confirms this with their latest travel report: “More people, age 65 and older, will be traveling this summer, with more than 40% of Baby Boomers reporting that they will be traveling outside of the United States.” If you or an elderly loved one in your family will be traveling abroad this summer, here are a few key tips you need to know before you go. Planning: Research and...

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