The FirstLight Care Corner

Are You Physically Able To Be Your Parents' Caregiver?

From our Care Blog

I stumbled upon an article today on the Maturity Matters blog that raised a very poignant question: Are you physically able to be your parents’ caregiver? With the boomer population rapidly increasing and the desire to age in place greater than ever, it’s no surprise many of us will inevitably start taking care of our parents. As anyone in the home care industry can attest, the job of caregiver is -- albeit filled with love -- also a frustrating, exhausting, emotional, sometimes boring and often lonely experience. What can caregivers do to keep themselves in shape for this kind of...

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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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Good reading: “Dad Has Dementia”

From our Care Blog

Recently, we came across a great blog that every caregiver of aging parents should read. It’s called “Dad Has Dementia”, and it won a 2010 Online Journalism Award for Online Commentary/Blogging. The blogger began writing when her dad was diagnosed with dementia, and she records the trials and tribulations her family has encountered along the way. Today she wrote, “Five weeks after Dad died, Mom moved to New Mexico to be near me. Through serendipity and the kindness of a stranger, we were able to find her a patio home just four blocks from our house. I'm grateful for how...

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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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FirstLight makes its Nebraska debut

From our Care Blog

After dedicating some time towards various missions travelling the world and sharing their faith, Dale and Nancy Ocken became FirstLight franchisees last month. As the premiere FirstLight franchise in the Omaha market, the Ockens' business will service West Omaha, Fremont, Arlington, Bennington and Elkhorn. “We have seen how everything has changed to accommodate the baby boomers, and one of the things that will change is home care is going to be more of an option for insurance companies [with regard to] paying for their aging clients,” Nancy told the Midlands Business Journal in an article that was published earlier this...

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Customers come first

From our Care Blog

Many of you may not know that much of FirstLight’s focus on client satisfaction comes from my son’s experience working at the Ritz Carlton in Atlanta. Devin, 27, worked at the hotel for three years before coming on board at FirstLight. The training he received at the Ritz taught him that customers come first; a happy customer means a happy business owner. And that’s a philosophy that can be easily transferred to elderly care. Our mission at FirstLight is helping seniors stay in the comfort and security of their own home. I’ve learned over the years—through various jobs and caring...

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Getting involved and giving back

From our Care Blog

Lately, I’ve been noticing a trend amongst seniors in the news—they’re giving back to their local communities and helping in out-of-the-box ways. A group of pro-active seniors in Burlington, Wash., for example, are helping fight crime with the town’s new Citizens On Patrol program. "So far our volunteers have already spotted a house that was broken into," Officer Tim Van Dyken, community resource officer for Burlington police told NWCN.com this week. The help from seniors is especially important as it comes at a time when budget cuts are the norm. Another story that sparked my attention this week is one...

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