Aging is not for the faint of heart. I know, because I’m one of those difficult seniors who would like some help, but I don’t ask. A recent survey from AARP reports that nearly 90 percent of seniors Caregivers provide peace of Mind want to stay in their own home as they age, which is often referred to as “aging in place.” Like everyone else, seniors have things to do, and places to go but hate to impose on others – so they don’t ask. Life events, like the death of a spouse or an adult child moving away often bring a new focus on the long-term care or temporary help needed for those growing older or an aging parent. Seniors often require help – after an injury or illness, a fall, or due to a doctor’s recommendation to limit some former activity they used to do independently. This need for help or support may come in the form of light housekeeping, laundry, help with organizing their medications, a ride to a doctor appointment, bank, or lunch out with friends. Back when boomers were growing up in the 1960’s, we were certain our grandparents in their 60’s were old, but now that we’re approaching our seventies, sixty-five or so no longer seems old. Many of our grandparents were surrounded by family. They certainly did not have the health care insurance and services as we do today. Back then, old people just went to their doctor (sometimes), to a hospital (when things happened), or to a nursing home (if they had money) and died of ‘natural causes’. In 2017 it’s different. Many older adults are not living near family who can help them navigate through aging. With today’s average life expectancy at 85 years and if you’re lucky enough to be one in four who reach 65, you can expect to live into your 90’s, it can get difficult to grow old. (source: AARP.org). Home Care Services Step In and Provide You with What You Need.The bright spot in all of this, whether you’re near family or not, FirstLight Home Care can step in and be there for you. Our compassionate caregivers customize their services based on what you need now and potential needs for care in months ahead. Here are a few ways we are helping our aging clients: Exercise + Activities: Our FirstLight caregivers spend time each day walking with their clients both outdoors and indoors. They also can join them in other active activities that they want to participate in but need a little support. Meal Prep: Our FirstLight Caregivers can help with grocery shopping and meal prep to make sure meals are made to met dietary needs. They work alongside your clients in the kitchen and make it a great interactive time for everyone. Caring for the Caregiver: If family is close by, caring for an aging parent can be overwhelming at times. The family caregiver needs time to do things for themselves and their family. That is where FirstLight Home Care can come in and support both the parent and the caregiver. Reduce Hospital Readmission: The FirstLight Home Care Readmission Rescue program safeguards patient health and helps ensure hospital compliance with the Affordable Care Act with non-medical home care services FirstLight caregivers view your loved ones through another set of eyes and ears, assessing and reporting unseen needs of seniors who may not be willing to ask family members for help. FirstLight National Alliances providers can count on FirstLight caregivers to ensure that your clients receive non-medical home care professionally provided with the compassion for a loved one. They will receive the care they deserve and the attention families expect. By: Roger Harned, FirstLight Home Care National Alliances Coordinator | 