The FirstLight Care Corner

Now I know my ABC’s…

From our Care Blog

And no, we’re not talking about the alphabet! Many seniors and older adults don’t realize the importance of getting the proper amount of essential vitamins on a daily basis. Did you know that 2/3 of older people admitted to hospitals are undernourished? The elderly are at an especially high risk of malnutrition for reasons such as lack of appetite which can be a result of medications or disability and also reduced food intake because of certain medical conditions. Sometimes, a healthy, balanced diet isn’t enough—vitamin/mineral supplements become necessary as we age. Here’s a brief rundown on some of the most...

Learn More about Now I know my ABC’s…

Celebrating Dad this Father's Day

From our Care Blog

Father’s Day is a special day for dads. It’s a day to let them know how much we love them and value their place in our lives. Even if we are all grown up now, father’s day represents our appreciation for all the long talks, late night homework help, summer tree house projects, and Boy Scout meetings or daddy-daughter dances throughout the years. It is important to make your dad feel appreciated on his special day. Here are some fun ideas and gift suggestions for Father’s Day this Sunday: Give him something he is passionate about Give your dad a...

Learn More about Celebrating Dad this Father's Day

Building a winning team against cancer

From our Care Blog

Today, we welcome our first guest post from caregiving expert, author and speaker, Joni Aldrich. Here is Joni's advice on how to build a winning team against cancer: The reality is that 4,000 people are diagnosed with cancer every day in the United States. To put that in perspective, that’s the population of my hometown in North Carolina. When these patients and their families hear the words “you have cancer”, they feel exactly the way my husband, Gordon, and I did seven years ago. We didn’t know what to do. The Saving of Gordon: Lifelines to W-I-N Against Cancer contains...

Learn More about Building a winning team against cancer

FirstLight Home Care welcomes guest blogger Joni Aldrich

From our Care Blog

FirstLight Home Care is proud to welcome guest blogger Joni Aldrich to the family! Joni will share her insight and expertise on caregiving with a blog post on the 15th of each month. Understanding first-hand the challenges, anguish, and even rewards that are associated with caring for loved ones, Joni will offer advice and suggestions and share her own trials and tribulations. It was her extensive care for her late husband, mother, and now her boyfriend that inspired Joni to share her knowledge and support with fellow caregivers as well as current cancer fighters. With her, you will always have...

Learn More about FirstLight Home Care welcomes guest blogger Joni Aldrich

Senior’s Who Bully—And Not The High School Kind

From our Care Blog

Many people assume bullying is just a part of being young but what they don’t realize is that many people suffer this type of harassment well into their elder years. Cliques in nursing homes and retirement communities are abundant and according to Gina Kaurich, FirstLight’s executive director of client care services, “there can be a type of caste system among residents and even fun activities aren’t immune from bully behavior.” Here are her tips on ways to combat senior bullies: Take care of yourself first and foremost. Recognize the behavior for what it is—abuse. Let the bullies know that what...

Learn More about Senior’s Who Bully—And Not The High School Kind

Secrets Of Maintaining A Healthy Relationship

From our Care Blog

Recently, the media has been having a field day covering the downfall of successful couples. Even breaking news stations such as CNN are covering the scandals of a certain California governor. With the negative attitudes surrounding marriage everywhere, it is refreshing to see inspirational print about couples. Here are some tips, courtesy of AARP.com, for maintaining a successful relationship: Find new activities to do together Doing the same activities as a couple quickly turns into a dull routine that leaves little excitement for either partner. Switching up these bonding activities makes couples feel younger and more in sync. Fun activities...

Learn More about Secrets Of Maintaining A Healthy Relationship

Relocating An Elder Parent

From our Care Blog

Recently, my parents, who are in their late 70’s, decided to relocate from California to Ohio in order to be closer to other family members, including me. After my dad broke his hip and my mom suffered a fall, they knew it was in their best interests to be near family who could provide future care, if need be. Surprisingly, my parents approached me about the issue—in many instances, adult children are the ones initiating this conversation and the elder may be reluctant or apprehensive to relocate. Going in, I had no idea of the details that had to be...

Learn More about Relocating An Elder Parent

National prescription drug take-back day

From our Care Blog

Want to jump on the spring-cleaning bandwagon while supporting an important public health issue? Take a moment this weekend and clean out your medicine cabinet. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is sponsoring a nationwide prescription drug “Take-Back” initiative in an effort to combat increased drug abuse and theft. On Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the DEA will be collecting potentially dangerous, expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs at collection sites nationwide. This is a free and anonymous service. This is the second time the DEA is conducting the “Take-Back” initiative, due to the success of the...

Learn More about National prescription drug take-back day

Calming the storms

From our Care Blog

Martha, my mother-in-law who has Alzheimer’s disease, is now requiring more personal care every day.  It has been a long winter for her; she has been in the hospital several times with urinary tract infections, pneumonia, dehydration and this last admission was because she became weak, unconscious and fell.  With the resulting gash on her head, multiple bruises and right arm in a sling, she looks like she just lost a fight.  All of this kept her recovering between the hospital, rehabilitation unit and our homes. Her memory is lessening; her paranoia is worse.  She asked her daughter, Carol, if...

Learn More about Calming the storms

Easter Holiday Offers Chance To Connect With Elderly Loved Ones

From our Care Blog

Another holiday has arrived and for many people, holidays equal family, food and fun. This can be especially exciting for seniors who don’t have the opportunity to spend a lot of quality time with friends and loved ones. Regardless of the religious beliefs of the seniors involved, Easter is a good opportunity to welcome the spring season and engage in Easter-related activities. If you’re planning a get-together this weekend, here are a few fun activities that will surely put a smile on your senior’s face. Prep time If you’re hosting the shindig, invite your elderly family members or friends over...

Learn More about Easter Holiday Offers Chance To Connect With Elderly Loved Ones