Senior
Health & Wellness

What is a PERS?

From our Care Blog

FirstLight franchisee, Michael LaVell, of Clarkston, Mich. discussed the benefits of a personal emergency response system (PERS) with The Eldercompass Blog earlier this week. Here are a few facts to get started: Approximately 12 million individuals currently receive home care from over 33,000 providers in the United States according to the National Association for Home Care and Hospice. As many of our nation’s elderly opt to remain in their home as they age, extra measures need to be taken to ensure their safety and independence. Part of maintaining autonomy is being prepared for unforeseen accidents or emergencies that may occur....

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Hello, retirement

From our Care Blog

As most of you know, the first wave of the 79 million Baby Boomers in America, are entering retirement this year. What can this generation expect as they begin the transition into their “Golden Years?” Surprisingly, a whole new world of money-saving benefits and opportunities are available. From life and health, finances, travel and transportation to entertainment and leisure activities, senior citizens and soon-to-be retirees are eligible for perks that affect almost every area of their lives. Here are five discounts to start taking advantage of: 1.    Auto-insurance: Many companies provide incentives if seniors take a safe-driving course. AARP’s Driver...

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New year, new you

From our Care Blog

Happy New Year! Have you made your resolution yet? As the holidays come to a close, I wanted to take some time to discuss a resolution that’s on the top of many peoples’ list: staying fit. It’s very important especially for seniors to take care of themselves as they get older. Many don’t realize, however, that this can be done with a few simple adjustments to one’s diet and daily routine. Below are some fitness and nutrition tips that fit the unique needs of the seniors in our lives. FITNESS TIPS Talk To A Doctor Before starting your loved one...

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Winter Safety

From our Care Blog

Well, it’s certain that winter is here and in most states across the country, we have the weather to prove it! Along with freezing temps come snow and icy walkways, which can be extremely dangerous for our elderly friends and family members. Though falls can and do happen in the home as well, it’s important to be extra careful outdoors this time of year. Here are a few tips for fall prevention: It’s shoe time! Make sure footwear is suitable for winter weather. Check the traction and fit. Consider anti-slip overshoes or use non-slip treads on your existing shoes. Also,...

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Making a list—and checking it twice

From our Care Blog

Now is a good time to sit down with your elder and figure out his or her priorities for the holiday season. Spend some time together making a list and setting dates to get it all done. From parties to presents, the holidays can be stressful—but with the right planning and preparation, it can also be a pleasant time filled with family bonding and fun. 1. Décor Galore. Putting up a tree and sprinkling holiday decorations around the house can create a cheerful environment filled with past holiday memories. This is also a great bonding experience for you and your...

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Gaming for health and happiness

From our Care Blog

Last weekend, it was announced—again—that a senior citizen bowled a perfect score on Nintendo’s Wii Bowling. But if you’ve been following your video gaming news, you know that Rhea Freeman, 85, of Houma, La. isn’t the first senior to perfect the game! Earlier this year, Dayton, Ohio resident Jack Davis, 86, announced that he had rolled 40 perfect games out of the 4,300 games attempted. "I bowled when I was younger, but not like this," Davis told his local paper. "If I bowled like this when I was league bowling in 1963, then I'd be a millionaire." Well, he's not...

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Fighting off the flu

From our Care Blog

With flu season starting this weekend, doctors and health officials are reminding everyone to get the flu shot—especially seniors. Some organizations are even offering free flu shots today. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, for example, will offer free flu shots for senior citizens on Medicare or enrolled in Medicare Advantage programs through Nov. 20. The shots will only cost $15 for others. Luckily this season, a new high-dose flu shot is available for senior citizens. The vaccine contains Antigen, which produces a stronger immune response than the standard flu shot. Seniors should also beware of H1N1. After last year's...

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Alzheimer’s Awareness

From our Care Blog

This Tuesday marks World Alzheimer’s Day. With this important day right around the corner, we wanted to take some time to shed light on the topic. Consider this*: • One in eight Americans aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s • 172 billion U.S. dollars are spent every year on the disease • There are 10.9 million unpaid Americans acting as caregivers to Alzheimer’s patients • Alzheimer’s was the seventh leading cause of death across all ages in the U.S. in 2006 Although Alzheimer’s affects people differently, some signs to be aware of in your loved one are: memory loss that...

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Fall Signals Time for Seniors to Stay Active

From our Care Blog

Now that the temperatures are cooling, there has never been a more optimal time to get outdoors and get active! And with the heat of summer a near memory, we encourage the elderly to enjoy the less humid temperatures. How can you help them make the most of the fresh air while it lasts? Consider these helpful tips to better keep your loved one active, alive and invigorated by fall’s cool rush: First Things First: Before starting an exercise program, consult a doctor. This is especially important when working with an in-home care provider service, such as FirstLight Home Care....

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Personal Stories, Personal Care

From our Care Blog

More than 20 years ago, Kim Motter remembers when her grandmother, Olivia, could no longer live independently in her home after suffering from a severe fall. Kim remembers how at the time, in-home care options were limited. Nursing homes were really the only viable care option for her family, who lived some 250 miles away from her ailing grandmother. Today, times are different. Kim, who recently opened a FirstLight Home Care business with her partner Liza M. Burns in Dayton, Ohio, never forgot Olivia’s story. Its lasting impact carried over into a mission of providing in-home care for those who...

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