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Common Causes of Vision Loss in Older Adults

Vision changes can occur as you get older. Based on statistical data from Vision changes can occur as you get older. Based on statistical data from the American Optometric Association, approximately 142 million U.S. citizens age 40 and older have vision problems. It is important to know the most common age-related eye and vision problems, the signs and potential treatment options in order to retain good vision as you age. GLAUCOMA is a group of eye diseases characterized by damage to the optic nerve resulting in loss of peripheral (side) vision. It often affects both eyes, typically one eye before the other....

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FirstLight’s Wendy Adlerstein Interviewed for “Upside to Aging” Video Podcast

FirstLight Home Care of West Suburban Boston’s Executive Director and Owner, Wendy Adlerstein, LSW, was recently interviewed by Molly Wisniewski (LeGrand) for her video podcast, “Upside to Aging.” Molly has cared for older adults living with dementia for over ten years and is firm believer that everyone deserves person-centered care in both the quality of their care and the quality of their life.  Wendy endorses this perspective. In the 22-minute video podcast, Wendy discusses the signs that a loved one may need some extra care.  While the video was produced during the December holidays and mentions tips for visits home...

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Simple Ways to Fight the Winter Blues

Don't put yourself or your loved one at risk for depression or other illnesses. By: Tina Glenn & Roget Berendes Our two worst enemies when it comes to our ability to fight the winter blues are a lack of sunshine and our tendency to shut ourselves off from others during the cold winter months. Sunshine is vital for good mental health, and it also provides our bodies with needed Vitamin D. Socialization is vital to staying connected to the outside world. Simple ways to fight the winter blues Here are some simple ways to help fight the winter blues: Get...

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Old Man Winter: Senior Winter Safety Tips

The number of accidents for seniors in the winter dramatically increases, especially in parts of the country where snow and ice are prevalent like New England. We asked our Executive Director and Owner, Wendy Adlerstein, LSW, for tips and safety precautions we can share to help you, or someone you know, prepare for the next few months of winter. Clear off sidewalks, porches and driveways: This may seem like common sense, but we know that people will venture out to retrieve the newspaper or pick up the mail without clearing a safe path. This can be a dangerous mistake. If you...

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5 Tips to Manage Holiday Stress

With all the decorating, cooking and gatherings, Hanukkah, Christmas and the New Year tend to bring additional stress. But a little planning and prioritizing can help you enjoy a peaceful holiday season. Here are some useful tips for all of us to help manage holiday stress: Remind yourself that things don’t always go as planned… and be flexible. It’s ok if you can’t make it to every holiday party you are invited to or stay for hours at each one. If you need to make an appearance at more than one,  just be cautious of the time and leave when...

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New Care Coordinator Position: We're Adding to our Office Team!

As our service to clients continues to grow, we are once again, expanding our office staff.  We are a friendly, fun, and upbeat, team-oriented work environment. We are seeking another Care Coordinator who will be responsible for case management of our home care clients which includes coordination and scheduling of services between clients and caregivers, including the implementation of schedules, ensuring adequate staffing, and continuity of care to best meet the needs of our clients. This is a full-time position reporting to the Manager of Client Care Services. This is a great opportunity for someone who holds a Bachelor's Degree and has...

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FirstLight's Wendy Adlerstein in "Adventures in Aging" Podcast Interview

Wendy Adlerstein, LSW, Executive Director & Owner of FirstLight Home Care of West Suburban Boston, was recently interviewed by CarolAnn Tutera, an aging advocate and influencer, for her podcast series, “Adventures in Aging.” In the engaging 30-minute podcast, Wendy explains how people tend to want to stay at home for as long as possible.  Many older adults have memories tied to the house including raising a family, they are close to their community, and cherish the familiarity with local shops.  Sometimes staying at home is not always an option and home can become another place like a senior living community...

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FirstLight Home Care Welcomes Kaia as Official Office Pup

Kaia has joined FirstLight Home Care of West Suburban Boston in the newly created position of Office Pup.  In her new role, Kaia ensures that no crumbs are left on the floor and most importantly, that each team member has a smile on their face when they see her.  She is always game for a belly rub.  Prior to joining the office team in September 2019, Kaia, unfortunately, had a less-than-enjoyable life.  But thanks to a rescue agency and our Executive Director & Owner, Wendy Adlerstein, LSW, she has found a renewed enthusiasm--and most certainly, round the clock love. Kaia...

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Avoiding Caregiver Burnout When Dealing with Alzheimer's

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is a tough job. The stress, demand, and constant worry can take a heavy toll on the family caregiver, so much that they often don’t take good care of themselves. It can also be an emotional journey as the family member providing care watches their loved one’s memories disappear and their daily skills decline. This inevitably will lead to caregiver burnout. Caregiving for someone with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can be all-consuming. Family caregivers face many responsibilities and it is easy to become overwhelmed. The best advice our caregivers at FirstLight Home...

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Assessing your Loved Ones' Needs over the Holidays: Free Seminar Tuesday, November 19, 2019

The holidays are often a time for happy reunions with aging parents, in-laws, aunts and uncles, and others who you haven't seen in months or perhaps even years.  However, it is also a time to address concerns you might have about your loved ones as they age. A free, objective and informational seminar will provide some insight on what to look for and how to have meaningful conversations about aging choices will be held on Tuesday, November 19th, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the education and training center of FirstLight Home Care of West Suburban Boston, 109 – 123, 109...

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