There are a number of resources for military veterans and the family members who care for them. We’ve collected several helpful links for you here, from assistance with benefits to caregiver support to how to save on housing costs. We invite you to share in the comments below any additional resources for veterans you have found to be helpful to your family. VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound Allowance VA Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits provide monthly payments added to the amount of a monthly VA pension for qualified Veterans and survivors. If you or your loved one needs…

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A 2018 study by AARP revealed that 76% of US residents over the age of 50 would prefer to live in their homes indefinitely as they get older. It’s easy to empathize with this desire, particularly when you consider how continuity of location can help with staying connected to your loved ones and engaged with your community. Adapting certain features of your home to make certain daily tasks easier can help seniors maintain their independence longer. Here are a few of the most common home modifications for aging in place. Installing handrails in and around the…

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Alzheimer’s can be one of the most difficult diagnoses to face. There’s so much uncertainty about your loved one’s future and what kind of care and support they will need. At FirstLight Home Care, we offer Alzheimer’s care designed specifically for this condition. It can help in a range of ways, ensuring your loved one is happy, safe, comfortable, and still enjoying life. Our Alzheimer’s Care Begins by Getting to Know Your Loved One Just because your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s doesn’t mean they are a different person. It’s why we always build our services around the individual,…

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National Senior Citizens Day is a time set aside to recognize our older population. Celebrated on August 21st, this day is meant to show appreciation to those who have worked, achieved, sacrificed and accomplished so much to make our lives and our world a better place. If you have a loved one who’s older, one way to help show your gratitude is by making their home safer – so they can live more independently – with these senior safety tips: Tip #1: Eliminate Fall Hazards  Falls are one of the biggest safety threats to seniors. In fact, on average, one…

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When you have a loved one with mobility issues, it’s scary to leave them alone. It can seem like there are fall hazards everywhere, from the staircase and area rugs to the bathroom and bedroom. You might want them to move to an assisted living community where they can get more help. Yet, they want to remain in their home. How can you keep them safe while they’re aging in place? Here are some aids that can help both of you gain peace of mind. Walkers & Canes According to the National Council on Aging, an older adult dies from a…

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If you’re a family caregiver, it’s a role you likely never expected to have. However, more than one in five Americans are caregivers just like you – helping a sick or aging family members. So, you’re certainly not alone. While the experience can be challenging and emotional, many family caregivers find it rewarding as well. If you’re one of them and would like to turn your abilities and experience into a career as a professional caregiver, FirstLight^® Home Care can help. We offer a range of professional caregiving opportunities for individuals like you who want a meaningful career. Some of…

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All family caregivers face many challenges. Millennial caregivers are no exception. On top of their unique set of challenges, unfortunately  this young group of family caregivers has fewer support systems in place. FirstLight is proud to be the exclusive home care provider for I-Ally, an online community and support network for millennial caregivers. Here is more information on our partnership. FirstLight Home Care is proud to be the exclusive home care provider for the I-Ally online community and support network. FirstLight Home Care Partners with Trusted Resource for Millennial Caregivers FirstLight Home Care, a leading provider…

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Loneliness and social isolation among the elderly were serious public health issues even before the COVID-19 outbreak. In fact, in a 2020 study released by the National Institutes of Health, 24% of adults over the age of 65 were considered socially isolated. Today, that number is far higher due to the pandemic, which is where companion care services can help. What is Companion Care? The need for social and emotional support doesn’t diminish as individuals age. It’s just as important for those who are elderly – and even those who have special needs – to be social; however, it’s harder…

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One in three adults in the U.S. cares for an aging or disabled loved one. If you’re one of these family caregivers, you know how demanding the role can be. It can lead to caregiver stress in the form of burnout, fatigue, exhaustion and even resentment toward your family member. It can also cause frustration and guilt, which can take a heavy toll on your mind and body. In fact, according to a report from AARP, 36% of family caregivers would describe their situation as “highly stressful.” In addition, the number of caregivers who would characterize themselves as in excellent…

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The rise of “elder orphans” has been dramatic in recent years. If you’re not familiar with the term, it refers to individuals who are aging alone, without a spouse or children to depend on for elder care. In fact, according to a study presented at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Geriatric Society, around 22% of older adults are elder orphans and considered “at-risk.” This number is expected to rise, presenting unique challenges to this group, including concerns about who will care for them and whether they can remain at home. Why Are Elder Orphans on the Rise? There…

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