The Caring Corner - Blog

The memories will be more vivid and the experience more gratifying if we give the gift our loved ones really want: Our presence.

November is Family Caregivers Month and that’s as good a reason as any to remind ourselves to show appreciation.

As the end of Daylight Savings Time approaches, some look forward to “getting back” that hour of sleep we lost in the spring. But many of us who care for those experiencing dementia or Alzheimer’s have seen how it can worsen the effects of sundowning. Preparing in advance can help your loved one ease into the change and minimize sundowning issues.

In-home monitoring serves millions of families, allowing seniors to live independently with dignity and offering priceless peace-of-mind to those who love them.

Caregivers often encounter families with one or more members experiencing a profound loss of vision. October 15 is White Cane Safety Day in the United States, an occasion to celebrate the equality of blind Americans and to affirm our commitment to their right to independence.

As many caregivers can attest, our older loved ones sometimes react to tragedies and disasters differently than the rest of us.

For me, you need three basic things to live a happy life: someone to love, something to do, and something to look forward to.

While we are confident we can find a cure together, we know that for families living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, their current situation is a much more pressing consideration. That’s why Caring Hearts is so grateful for the caregivers who share their lives with those afflicted with this terrible condition.

In preparation for World Alzheimer’s Day September 21, we’re highlighting some of the unique challenges faced by in-home caregivers supporting those afflicted with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia.

As professional in-home caregivers and families of those who count on our support, we know how much grandparents treasure their connections to family. But as Grandparents Day approaches, we're thinking about how this translates to the 21st Century.

We hope you’ll join Caring Hearts in finding an Alzheimer's Walk near you, putting together a team, or sponsoring one or more participants.

Since the 1930s, American have marked one day in August to celebrate our seniors, the lives they’ve lived and the contributions they continue to make to our communities. Since the 80s, we’ve celebrated on August 21.

It’s important that we include regular – at least annual – vision exams in our caring plans. Senior citizens, in particular, should be screened for some specific conditions that affect them disproportionately.

Whether it’s young children or an older adult, vacations can be a special kind of challenge for in-home caregivers. Our professional caregivers have noted some activities and attractions you can enjoy with younger and older members of the family, together.

Caring for someone in their home means supporting their independence in many ways, and that usually includes their interaction with health care professionals.

Loyalty, patience, strength, discretion, stamina, wisdom … the qualities that describe an Exceptional Caregiver are many. And finding those qualities combined in a single individual is what makes professional in-home care work for families and their caring support teams.

This summer, rather than recommending the books we’re reading that might be of interest to other caregivers, we’d like to suggest subjects that will interest our older loved ones.

In-home caregivers celebrate independence every day. In fact, perhaps members of no other profession appreciate the importance of personal independence more than those who support the dignity of seniors hoping to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.

In-home caregivers are aware of the potential hazards our loved ones face while we’re with them. But one of the important roles of elder care is to anticipate and address situations that may be safety risks when we’re not there.

With summer upon us, these tips for providing in home care during the hot months will help caregivers and their elderly family members be better prepared.

Gift-giving for seniors aging in place is always going to be complicated, and there’s no single perfect gift for every situation. However we’ve found some of the current technologies remarkably user friendly.

Feeding America, the national network of food banks and food pantries, notes that almost one in 10 seniors who live alone are food insecure, which is defined as lacking reliable access to nutritious food. Many others may have the financial means to purchase a sufficient amount of healthy foods but lack the resources to go to the grocery or the ability to prepare it properly.

Memorial Day weekend is a time when officially we stop to remember those who have sacrificed their lives in the service of their country

With Senior Health and Fitness Day approaching, there are plenty of ideas for how to encourage your older loved ones to take their strength and conditioning seriously.

If you were to ask most moms, they'd probably tell you that the love of their families is the only gift they could ever ask for.

May is American Stroke Month.

Strokes can happen at any age and to people in any physical condition, but the risk does increase the older we get. That’s why, in addition to preventative steps like maintaining healthy diet and exercise and monitoring blood pressure, it’s important to know the signs of a stroke and what to do when we recognize them.

In-home care will never be a one-size-fits-all program. It’s personal. Join the discussion on Facebook.

“I look forward to spending time with my clients at least as much as they do,” says Henny Schneiderbauer, a professional caregiver at Caring Hearts in Dallas.

Whether you’re hosting a graduation party, holiday celebration or just a casual weeknight dinner, there are a few extra considerations when senior members of the family are joining in on the fun.

When caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease, open communication and mutual understanding are even more essential as the only thing that’s certain about this terrible disease is the day-to-day uncertainty.

Korey Theusch, Caregiving Professional, Caring Hearts of Mequon

The importance of proper nutrition is perhaps more important as we age than at any other time in our adult lives.

Here are some specific steps to make the Daylight Savings Time transition a smoother experience for older loved ones.

Caregiver Spotlight: Vanessa Baines, Caring Hearts of Rockwall, Dallas, Texas

February is American Heart Month.

February is national senior independence month.

Our locally owned and operated Caring Hearts offices are evaluated by a number of outside agencies depending on the states in which they operate and the level of care their clients require.

Help! My Mom (or Dad) is dating again!

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month.

Let's resolve simply to be better; to come a little closer to being the child, sibling, partner and caregiver we know we can be.

These different ideas will provide fun for the whole family this holiday season.

It’s important for all of us to consider some simple preparation and look after our older loved ones to make sure their needs are covered.

These simple but inspiring quotes are sure to brighten any caregiver's day.

"It was a little scary at first, but as caregivers, we had to figure it out.”

We need to commit ourselves to up-to-date vaccinations for everyone on our caring teams.

On Veterans Day, many Americans have difficulty finding the best way to thank a veteran, but simply being a friend to a veteran may be the best strategy.

Caring Hearts caregivers recommend you keep these crucial items in your own caregiver ready bag in case of emergency.

Preparation and teamwork are the keys in all aspects of caregiving. That’s why many families benefit from a simple act of preparation called the ready bag.

We'd like to offer a few strategies for leading a discussion on care roles with your siblings.

While the day-to-day work of dementia caregiving may seem solitary at times, it’s refreshing to see how much we really are in it together.

These simple but inspiring quotes are sure to brighten any caregiver's day.

Betty Bibb, a caregiver for Caring Hearts Home Care in Corsicana, Tex., has now been recognized twice with national awards for caregiving.

Slips, trips, and stumbles can be more serious as we grow older or when our recuperative powers are compromised by some medical condition. That’s why many of our friends and colleagues in the caring professions are joining together to promote National Falls Prevention Awareness Day on September 22, 2016.

Our senior care experts have identified these 5 overarching family caregiver categories in order to shine a light on different parts played.

Join AARP on Tuesday, September 20 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET in AARP’s free Virtual Career Fair—a great opportunity for those interested in professional caregiving jobs!

After receiving positive feedback from in-home care clients, Teresa decided to expand in order to help even more people in her community.

Whether you recognize it yet or not, you've taken on a life-changing responsibility. Here's how to avoid risks such as isolation and burnout.

Our elders want their independence for as long as possible. That means caregivers must try to offer support that doesn't interfere with it.

Through our research on family dynamics, we've recognized a common theme among family caregivers: a loss of choice and control.

4 Summer Heat Tips for Family Caregivers

We were struck by an offhand comment from the adult child of one of our senior care clients recently: "I don’t have time to relax."

As your parents get older, it’s natural to worry about their well-being. But how do you start a conversation about your concerns without setting off Mom or Dad’s alarm bells?

Change is inevitable and needing help in one area doesn’t necessarily mean the end of one’s independent life.

Marge, a client in Indiana, said she doesn’t think she would have made it this long had it not been for Cheryl’s care.

Home care for seniors will continue to benefit seniors, their families, the overall health system and the economy, according to a recent report.

It seems like one of the common principles that unite all cultures: Respect your elders. But sometimes it doesn’t work out that way.

Her co-workers say that you can’t look at Bernie without smiling. And if you can, she’ll have you smiling anyway within 15 seconds.

Summer is the season when life slows down for some of us, but our in-home elder caregivers understand that perception can be misleading.

Traveling with aging parents requires a certain amount of preparation and planning.

Music is calming and therapeutic for many of our in-home care clients, and provides truly remarkable results in dementia care clients.

An Alzheimer's or dementia patient's fundamental humanity — that essence that makes them the person we care about — remains always.

Sometimes the best gift you can give is sharing an experience with family.

When you think about it, PD is not something that happens to an individual, but to an entire family and support system.

The care provided by Betty Bibb—an in-home caregiver in Corsicana, TX—has even been called a "breath of fresh air."

Working with many client families with different needs, Donna in our Newport Beach, California, office is sometimes on call 24 hours a day for days on end.

Mark Thommarson, the owner of Caring Hearts in Corsicana, TX, knew he had to make the right assignment for one of his special home care clients: his own mother.

After a 30-year career in education, Barbara found that the skills she’d honed in the classroom translate very well to professional caregiving.

Caregiving is more than just shift-work: It’s a mission. In Thornton, Colorado, families have learned to count on our Caring Hearts colleague Mary.

One of the foundations of Caring Hearts is our pledge to be like your extended family when you can’t be there. Irean, a caregiver in our Altoona, Pennsylvania office, proves this every day.

Parkinson’s disease robs people of many things. Their dignity should not be one of them.

Hannah, a Caring Hearts caregiver in Franklin, Tennessee, shows how showing respect builds self-respect. That can make the difference between a woman with dementia retreating from her life — and living it.

Seeing the care her mother received in her last months not only touched her heart, it changed her career path.

5 helpful tips for those of you in long-distance caregiving situations, courtesy of the expert caregivers at Caring Hearts Home Care.

A Caring Hearts caregiver alert system went off one morning at 7 o’clock and led to the rescue of this caregiver staff member.

Today, we are celebrating the compassion and dedication of a special caregiver from Boise, Idaho.

Tips for nourishing your important relationships, collected by the in-home caregiving staff at Caring Hearts.

Here are some of our top tips for adult children of senior parents who are back in the dating game, collected by the in-home caregivers at Caring Hearts.

Getting Mom or Dad to engage in the amount of activity they need to stay healthy and strong can be a challenge. Here are tips collected from the experts at Caring Hearts senior home care agencies.

A well-organized household makes life easier for elderly parents who want to live independently at home.

A typical doctor may only have 15 minutes to spend with each appointment, so we often recommend these tips for doctor visits to our elder care clients.

“It’s time for your annual review.” It’s a phrase that can send many an employee into a spiral of anxiety. Annual reviews have acquired their bad reputation mostly because of bad—meaning “poorly executed”—reviews. Bosses (actually, all of us) tend to focus disproportionately on the negative: “Here’s what went wrong and what you need to do to fix […]

The last couple of weeks of the year are a whirlwind for most of us. They can be an especially exhausting marathon for those juggling competing family schedules, travel and all the expectations of the holiday season. Holidays are often the only occasions when the entire family, or most of it, gathers in one place […]

Are you heading home for the holidays? Gather your family to ask your grandparents these home care expert–approved questions. (Includes a FREE printable!)

While helping at family visits during the holiday season, this wise advice is shared by Caring Hearts in-home elder caregivers.

One of the silent challenges of older Americans is isolation. When children and grandchildren move to all corners of the country or even the world, it can be difficult to feel connected. I was thinking about this recently when I learned about the Nixplay photo frames. These wonderful devices allow family members to send photos directly into a loved one’s

The seniors we love are always at the top of our holiday gift lists. So why are they so often the last people we buy for? It could be because older adults are among the most difficult gift puzzles to solve. Do we get them something practical or personal? Functional or decorative? Let’s face it: […]

Here are our top suggestions for what family caregivers really want, from our senior home care team at Caring Hearts.

In home care agencies like Caring Hearts allow elderly veterans to enjoy the freedom that they served to defend, aging in place in the comfort of home.

When family caregivers realize they need help taking care of Mom or Dad, many fear that a nursing home or assisted living facility is the only option. They worry that their aging parents will have to leave the home they love. They feel like they’re condemning their loved ones to a life of isolation, and that they […]

It was an honor to be featured in a recent news story about what Caring Hearts calls the Caregiving Dilemma. Local 12 News here in Cincinnati recently featured my colleague Cheryl Hammons, senior vice president of franchise services for Caring Hearts Home Care, along with her sister-in-law, Gina Clawson, who experienced the Caregiving Dilemma firsthand […]

Available only outside the USA, Caring Hearts offers the same great services to clients worldwide that Caring Hearts has provided domestically for 18 years.

4 quick tips for planning ahead for your family’s senior in-home care needs. Even if your older loved ones don’t need extra help now, they may some day.

For Boss’s Day this year, I’d like to highlight some of my inspirational colleagues – the amazing owners of local Caring Hearts Home Care agencies.

Making time to cook a meal in the kitchen can be therapeutic in many ways. Apart from the satisfaction of creating your own dinner and enjoying the tastes and smells of your labor, following an old recipe can help you feel connected with your family members, and following a new recipe with a loved one is a chance to make new memories together.

I’d like to share some notable insights about the current landscape of aging. The more we know, the better we can prepare for the changes ahead for our elderly loved ones. These aging statistics offer valuable knowledge about getting older that allow us to understand the needs of our older loved ones and make life easier […]

I’d like to share some of these stories with you in the hope that they might help anyone currently struggling with the Caregiving Dilemma.

While you may not actively celebrate Grandparents Day in your family, I think it’s as good a prompt as any for spending quality time with the older adults in our lives.

The fact is that caregiving demands a lot of energy. Family and professional caregivers know that the needs of our elderly don’t like to take a vacation.

While no situation is the same, there are some basic facts that can help guide you and your family in the process of balancing care needs

It is an honor to care for aging parents. In the summers and on holidays my family would drive to Kentucky from our home in Florida to help care for my Nan. Then, when I was a senior in college, my mother suffered her third stroke, and six months later my dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Family […]

When we find ourselves in a new and challenging situation, many of us turn to the experiences of others for guidance. Or at least we should—shouldering a responsibility like caregiving solo can be a lonely and sometimes impossible journey. A good book can help me find the answers I’m looking for. Whether it’s a book about new […]

Barb has a knack for picking up on little things that are happening with the family, and she makes it a point to target projects and goals on what the clients enjoy doing but can’t do anymore. With Barbara around, her clients tell me, they can cook again, get their hair done, dress up nice like they used to, and even do all the extra activities they did years ago

After opening for business seventeen months ago, Caring Hearts of Jacksonville, Alabama was voted a top Independent Living resource in the local community.

While the quickly aging population receives important and appropriate attention, what is often missed is the true effect this will have on families.

In honor of Parents’ Day, I’d like to share some tips we have gathered at Caring Hearts Home Care in our 18 years of helping families escape the Caregiver Paradox.

If your next holiday abroad or beach vacation involves traveling with an aging parent, that Patagonia hiking trip you’ve been dreaming of may have to wait.

Here are some quick ways to honor veterans this Independence Day weekend as you enjoy time with friends—even if you’re a busy Sandwich Generation caregiver.

Whatever your situation, Father’s Day marks a special opportunity for enjoying moments with Dad, and saying Thank You for all he’s done for you.

Your next home improvement project could help you or your family live at home longer. Universal Design can help your loved ones age in place at home.

Young adults moving back home after college—known collectively as the Boomerang Generation—pose yet another challenge to their Sandwich Generation parents.

Family caregiver responsibilities can lead to skipping lunch to check on Mom, leaving work early to take the kids to practice and spending weekends catching up on work.

A hardworking, 62-year-old immigrant from Ghana and a mother and grandmother, Agnes Freeman has worked with Caring Hearts for years as a trusted caregiver. At our 2015 National Conference in Orlando, I was honored to present another award to Agnes: Caregiver of the Year for 2014.

I see time and time again how family members taking on multiple care responsibilities begin to undergo intense stress and family tensions, ultimately …

This year, under the Florida sun, we are focusing on being BOLD.

Teresa Phillips makes it her full-time job to keep her 92-year-old client happy.

How do we make time for ourselves, when those we care for require so much?

Today, a mother in Pennsylvania has to make a hard decision: Will she attend her son’s championship basketball game, or visit her aging father to make sure he has taken his meds?

Alzheimer’s disease was featured in not one, but two awards at the 2015 Oscars, including Best Actress and Best Original Song. Watch the highlights and read about this important visibility.

While many were enjoying a snow day at home, Sam Sellers of Caring Hearts of Little Rock was out braving the persistent ice storms to help his care clients. A THV11 news reporter followed Sam on some of his client visits and captured the story below…

With the help of organizations like Wounded Warriors, Caring Hearts of Elgin mobilized local seniors and churches in writing holiday cards to our military.

A playlist of song ideas to help caregivers stir up happy memories for loved ones. If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, you may be wondering what…

Unfortunately, the holidays can be a sad and isolating time for seniors. Here’s why, plus how you can help.

Many say that “where words fail, music speaks” and this motto can be seen firsthand in patients struggling with Alzheimer’s. Music therapy is quickly becoming…

Today, as we reflect on the service and honor the bravery of the veterans whom have served in our military, we must not forget that once these soldiers return home, many are faced with different types of battles such as life-long challenges and injuries. No one comes home from military duty unaffected. Once these soldiers […]

Congratulations to Sharon Tworek of Caring Hearts of Wheaton, IL for winning the title of Caregiver of the 3rd Quarter 2014! When Chris and Carol Gerardi opened their doors, they “borrowed” Sharon Tworek from a neighboring franchise owner. Sharon serves as a caregiver for three offices, and for five years now, she has been providing […]

On October 4th, the Caring Hearts Memory Keepers participated for the fifth consecutive year in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Staff from the Caring Hearts National Support Center, family members and pets gathered on a chilly Saturday morning to walk three miles through downtown Cincinnati. 42 total people participated in the walk, wearing […]

Over the course of my career, my travels have taken me to a lot of places to experience different cultures, foods, entertainment and communities. While all of those places and experiences have been wonderful, there is no better place to go than back home. Recently, I had the opportunity to go “home” to visit my […]

We know that the world of caregiving can sometimes be a lonely one. It is common for caregivers to feel stressed and overwhelmed, like you are the only one that understands how challenging your work can be. You are not alone! Have you joined Pinterest yet? Caring Hearts is now on Pinterest, with the goal […]

The recent stories in the news have called the nation’s attention to the issue of domestic violence. Statistics show that 1 in every 4 women have faced some form of abuse in their lifetime.¹ This is a truly alarming statistic, and it is unacceptable. But, what is more shocking is that only one quarter of […]

Coming to the realization that a loved one might need home care can be an overwhelming process. There are many questions that come up when your aging loved one is having trouble with activities of daily living (ADL’s). There are typical warning signs to watch for, but sometimes the signs may be more subtle. If […]

The busy summer months are full of plans, family get-togethers and vacations. But, as summer turns the bend toward autumn, August is a good time to focus on getting things in order for the upcoming season. August is Cataract Awareness Month at Caring Hearts and it is the perfect time for seniors to schedule eye […]

Caregiver Stress? Take a Breath. In almost every work place in the country, employees are given the periodic opportunity to step away from their work related tasks. The traditional work day begins at 8 am and ends at 5 pm, lunch breaks are granted and no one would think twice about a co-worker stepping away for […]

At the age of 52, needing a caregiver is rarely a consideration taken into account. But for Harry, who is fighting brain cancer, the need for help …

As we age we don’t expect to give up our ability to contribute. Purpose and time are the best gifts an aging loved one can receive.

Top 8 Tips to Protect Seniors from Financial Abuse Elder financial abuse is something every family should be aware of and discussing with their loved ones. At Caring Hearts, we are committed to bringing awareness to the issue of elder financial abuse. According to the Investor Protection Trust, one of five people age 65 or […]

Memorial Day Festivities This Memorial Day, families and friends will gather for good food and good times at cookouts, parades and festivals held annually across the nation. Amidst burgers and baked beans, music and fireworks, stories will be shared and memories will be made. This festive three-day weekend holds a special place in the hearts […]

In The News: Former English Police Officer Opens Florida Caring Hearts Debbie Ward, former police officer and current owner of Caring Hearts & Direct Link of Spring Hill, was featured last week in the Hernando Today, an edition of The Tampa Tribune and The Tampa Times. As a police officer in England, Debbie Ward made a difference in […]

Today, Caring Hearts would like to spotlight a caregiver whose dedication to her work has made a true difference for a family in Virginia. Agnes Freeman, a caregiver with David Silverman’s Caring Hearts of Northern Virginia, has earned the Caring Hearts Caregiver of the 1st Quarter 2014 award for her extraordinary work with a […]

This Mother’s Day, all of us at Caring Hearts want to say Thank You to the women in our lives whose generosity and selflessness have made us who we are today. The joy of parenting a new child often comes with sleepless nights and other surprises for new moms. The physical and emotional demands of […]

Arthritis is the number 1 cause of disability for all ages. Imagine experiencing pain every time you stand, sit, turn your head, or use your hands. For the 50 million people living with arthritis in the United States (that’s 1 in every 5 adults), this becomes reality. Everyday activities, such as getting dressed and going […]

Celebrities—such as Muhammad Ali, Michael J. Fox, and Janet Reno—may have helped you become more aware of Parkinson’s Disease. Even still, there remains a general lack of understanding about the disorder in terms of functional aspects and care-giving considerations. Parkinson’s is a disorder of the central nervous system that affects over 1.5 million Americans. The […]

Discussing health and aging issues with your family can be a challenge. Issues that often emerge as people age can be identified with the H.I.D.E. acrostic: Health and care concerns – Physical challenges; limited mobility; cognitive deficit Independent living concerns – The (in)ability of people to handle grocery shopping, meal preparation, house cleaning, […]

When you hear Parkinson’s Disease, what to do you think? More than likely, you imagine the symptom most commonly associated with the illness: trembling in the hands, arms, legs and face. Although tremors are a common sign and symptom of Parkinson’s Disease, there are in fact many others: Stiffness or rigidity of muscles in the […]

Frigid Arctic Blasts and record-setting lows have been seizing many parts of the nation this winter, leaving millions of people vulnerable to winter’s harsh elements. People of all ages are advised to exercise extreme caution in such dangerous conditions, but the elderly are especially susceptible to serious, and in some cases life-threatening, health risks […]

As your loved one ages, they will likely make more visits to the doctor. According to the Administration on Aging, 23% of people aged 75+ had 10 or more visits to a doctor or other health care professional in the past year. But are these doctor visits enough to keep them happy, healthy and well? Many […]

Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it. Instead of chocolates and candies, show your heart some love by committing to making healthier choices starting today! Why is heart health so important? Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. Someone has a heart attack every 34 seconds. Each minute, […]

As Old Man Winter settles in with his long nights and cold days, it’s common for people to experience the “winter blahs.” Boredom is often a complaint, especially from older people and those facing health challenges, but there are many ways to maintain an active lifestyle through the cold winter months! These 6 tips will […]

Many of us traveled home for the holidays to visit Mom and Dad. This time spent together comes once a year and is a special time, filled with holiday excitement and cheer. But, did you notice signs that something was “off” about your aging loved one?

Studies show over 90% of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions and revert to their old ways within the first two months of the year! This year, rather than setting overly ambitious goals that fizzle fast, take some time to determine what’s really important to you. Then, make a plan and write it down […]

This blog courtesy of Debra Kostiw, Alzheimer’s expert and owner of Caring Hearts & Direct Link of Rochester, NY How does music make you feel? Think about some of your favorite songs. What are some special times that you associate with certain songs? Music can shape our emotions and provoke our memories because it

It’s inevitable that our experiences and relationships help to shape who we are. But it’s rare that an encounter has such a profound effect on our lives that we change course – or college majors. But that’s exactly what happened when Sara Herrmann took a part-time summer gig as a Caring Hearts caregiver with Mike

Today, we honor the millions of veterans, past and present, who have dedicated their lives to serving our country and protecting others. But too often, these men and women go without the health care they need because of a lack of information or assistance.

Emanuel James “Jim” Rohn, an American entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker, once said, “One person caring about another represents life’s greatest value.” All too often, we get so caught up in our endless “to do” lists, that we lose sight of what matters the most – the love and appreciation of our friends and

Twelve years ago today, thousands of innocent lives were lost and our entire nation was struck to the core in a matter of seconds during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. In an instant and without warning, families and friends were torn apart. Mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, friends, colleagues … lost in a horrific series of

Aging is a part of life and something that most individuals will experience. Reversing the role between parent and child is one of the most difficult challenges within the aging process. As a child, you want to respect the wishes and independence of your weakening parent and help them to avoid being a victim of

Caring for a loved one is an age-old act of love and loyalty; however, it can prove to be an overwhelming journey. In addition to balancing life’s everyday demands, a caregiver must also ensure that the needs of their loved ones are being met. Unfortunately, caregiving can take a heavy toll if signs of stress

This blog courtesy of Kyle Laramie, President and Co-Founder of Veterans Care Coordination, a national organization that assists veterans and spouses in obtaining the Aid and Attendance benefit. Each year on July 4, we honor our founding fathers and their great vision for a country whose citizens could enjoy the freedoms and independence they had

Is it Time to Consider an Emergency Medical Alert System? This blog courtesy of VRI, a leading provider of medical-only monitoring services in the healthcare industry. Did you know that one in three seniors will experience a fall this year? ¹,² This is a frightening statistic considering falls can result in debilitating injuries such as broken hips

Compassionate caregivers are the heart and soul of our business. Every day, they set aside their own priorities to focus on the betterment of others. This is not an easy task – it takes a great deal of kindness, patience and selflessness to set aside one’s own personal cares and worries to help others

In support of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, Caring Hearts is raising awareness about elder abuse, neglect and exploitation. Throughout the world, abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults remains a hidden problem that is largely under-recognized and under-reported. According to the National Center for Elder Abuse, there are few accurate

This is part of an ongoing series of guest blogs written by Jo Huey, the Alzheimer’s Advocate®, founder of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Institute. In our last post, we talked about the 9th Absolute of communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s: Never condescend, instead encourage/praise. Today, we’ll explore the 10th and final Absolute: Never force,

This is part of an ongoing series of guest blogs written by Jo Huey, the Alzheimer’s Advocate®, founder of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Institute. In our last post, we talked about the 8th Absolute of communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s: Never command/demand, instead ask/model. Today, we’ll explore the 9th Absolute: Never Condescend, Instead Encourage/Praise. When

This is part of an ongoing series of guest blogs written by Jo Huey, the Alzheimer’s Advocate®, founder of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Institute. In our last post, we talked about the 7th Absolute of communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s: Never say, “You can’t,” instead do what they can. Today, we’ll explore the 8th

This is part of an ongoing series of guest blogs written by Jo Huey, the Alzheimer’s Advocate®, founder of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Institute. In our last post, we talked about the 6th Absolute of communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s: Never say, “I told you,” instead repeat/regroup. Today, we’ll explore the 7th Absolute: Never

This is part of an ongoing series of guest blogs written by Jo Huey, the Alzheimer’s Advocate®, founder of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Institute. In our last post, we talked about the 5th Absolute of communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s: Never say, “Remember,” instead reminisce. Today, we’ll explore the 6th Absolute: Never say, “I

This is part of an ongoing series of guest blogs written by Jo Huey, the Alzheimer’s Advocate®, founder of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Institute. In our last post, we explored the 2nd Absolute of communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s: Never reason, instead divert. Today, we’ll explore the 3rd Absolute: Never shame, instead distract. If

This is the second in a series of guest blogs written by Jo Huey, the Alzheimer’s Advocate®, founder of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Institute. Did you know nearly one-third of the U.S. population (65.7 million caregivers) is caring for someone who is ill, disabled or elderly?¹ Of those 65.7 million caregivers, 23% are caring for

This is the first in a series of guest blogs written by Jo Huey, the Alzheimer’s Advocate®, founder of the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Institute. According to a recent study, Alzheimer’s is the second most-feared disease in the U.S., next to cancer. Despite this fear, only 61% of Americans surveyed were aware that Alzheimer’s is an

Elder abuse can manifest itself in many forms, but perhaps the most difficult to detect is that of financial exploitation. While the nightly news may bring to light the most recent “scam” to hit a community, this form of abuse often happens behind closed doors between the victim and someone considered trustworthy and dependable,

Once in a great while, you meet someone who is truly inspiring. Someone whose spirit shines so bright, even in the darkest of days, that you can’t help but be moved. Barbara Johnson is one of these people. For the past three years, she’s been providing in home care to those in need as

Despite the best of intentions, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be difficult! In today’s fast-paced society, it can seem like there aren’t enough hours in the day to keep up with eating right and exercising. But living healthy doesn’t have to be such a challenge! A little planning and prep can go a long

Did you know that 20% of Medicare patients have five or more chronic conditions, see 14 different physicians a year and fill 50 prescriptions annually! That’s a lot to manage, for both the patients and the healthcare professionals. To ensure your elderly loved one is receiving the best possible care and medications are working properly,

This morning, I heard the song, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” playing on the radio. A classic holiday tune for sure, but then it struck me … for some people, especially seniors who live alone or have recently lost a loved one, the holidays may actually cause more pain than joy.

Over the past 20 years, home health care has emerged as an affordable, effective option to help people age in place in the comfort of home surrounded by friends and family. Studies clearly show people are happier and live longer when they are able to continue living independently in their own home as opposed

Thanksgiving is just days away, and you know what that means! Delicious feasts with family and friends and crowded airports with strangers. The holidays are an exciting time, but sometimes the stress of travel can leave you feeling worn down and expose your immune system to cold and flu viruses you would normally be

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month may have passed, but the importance of early detection remains critical year-round. In fact, the 5-year survival rate is 98 percent with early detection! Breast cancer is the 2nd leading form of cancer in women in the U.S. (skin cancer is No. 1), and the 2nd leading cause of

This Sunday, we will honor veterans who have served in the U.S. Military to defend our nation’s freedom. These men and women dedicated their lives to serving our country, but too often, they now go without the health care they need simply because of a lack of information or assistance. What many veterans and

Greetings from Cancun, Mexico! It is my honor, as the president of the nation’s leading senior care franchise, to be here to celebrate Caring Hearts & Direct Link’s 15th anniversary with many of our franchise owners and staff at our annual National Conference! Every day, we have the privilege of truly making a difference in

This past Saturday, October 6, the Caring Hearts Memory Keepers gathered together for the third year in a row to pay tribute to loved ones and support a great cause at the 2012 Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Walk to End Alzheimer’s. With 28 Caring Hearts Memory Keepers team members and several four-legged friends, this year

Fall is here, and you know what that means! Football season, changing leaves and backyard bonfires with friends and family. If you’re like me, you’ve already brought out your space heater as the first line of defense against the cooler autumn temps. But while these little devices can help keep you warm and cozy,

This Saturday, we will celebrate the first day of fall, as well as National Falls Prevention Awareness Day in an effort to promote awareness on how to prevent and reduce falls among older adults and improve home safety. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of three adults age 65

On Dec. 27, 2011, the Department of Labor issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to Amend the Companionship and Live-In Worker Regulations that would require agencies to pay a higher wage, typically 1½ times the regular rate, for any time that employees work more than 40 hours in a week. While minimum wage is

Originating out of the Labor Movement in the late 19th century, Labor Day has long been celebrated as a tribute to the contributions and achievements made by the country’s hardworking men and women in the labor force. And while America’s working class is certainly well deserving of this honor, I’d like to take this

Many people are under the impression that vision loss is just something that happens as we age. And while age can certainly play a part, there are preventative measures that can be taken today to help you protect the health of your eyes tomorrow. August is National Cataract Awareness Month, and with summer winding

As a running enthusiast, I’ve always been passionate about pursuing a healthy and active lifestyle. In fact, I just completed my second Flying Pig Half-Marathon this past May in Cincinnati, Ohio! Running helps keep me at my best by lowering my stress, boosting my energy and increasing my focus … but the benefits of

Is it just me, or does this summer feel hotter than the last? Don’t get me wrong, I love summer! But I also know the heat associated with it can cause significant health risks, especially in the elderly. People age 65 and older are at a higher risk for heat stress because their bodies

Celebrate Senior Independence this Fourth of July! The Fourth of July has always been one of my favorite holidays. I love getting together with friends and family for the annual parades, cookouts and fireworks displays – the festivities are always so fun and inspiring, reminding me how proud I am to be an American. Not

From expectant fathers to those we’ve lost, and everything in between, Father’s Day marks a special opportunity to honor fathers everywhere and say Thank You for all they’ve done for us. My Dad will always hold a special place in my heart, but especially on Father’s Day, I’m reminded of all the memories we shared

Despite the fact that nearly one-third of the U.S. population is caring for an aging loved one, elder abuse remains a hidden problem that is largely under-recognized and under-reported. In fact, it is estimated that only one in six cases or fewer are ever reported, meaning the majority of victims never get help! According

This Memorial Day weekend, families and friends will gather for good food and good times at cookouts, parades and festivals held annually across the nation. Amidst burgers and baked beans, music and fireworks, stories will be shared and memories will be made. Unofficially marking the beginning of summer, this festive three-day weekend holds a

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, I’d like to take a moment to recognize and say thanks to all of the amazing women around the world who expertly perform the mind-boggling juggling act of motherhood each and every day. As a mother myself, I know the pure joy a child can bring to

If you or a loved one suffers from Parkinson’s disease, you know how deeply frustrating and isolating it can feel to slowly lose control of your mobility and independence … but you’re not alone. According to the National Parkinson Foundation, it is estimated that one million Americans and between four to six million people

Home Health Care Enables Seniors to Age in Comfort of Home Longer than Previously Possible My own personal journey with family caregiving began in my late teens. Over the next 20 years at any given time, my family was caring for at least two family members who were either in declining health or facing terminal

In celebration of National Nutrition Month, this is the second in a two-part series where I’ll share tips on how to pursue a healthier lifestyle. In my last blog, I shared three simple steps to help you get started on your quest for your best self, including thinking long-term, opting for fresh instead of

We’ve all seen the famous TV commercial with the elderly woman calling out, “Help! I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up!” And while such advertisements can often overdramatize reality, this one is frighteningly accurate. According to the American Geriatrics Society, one-third of people age 65 and older will fall each year. No one wants

Happy Valentine’s Day! For centuries, February 14th has been celebrated as the holiday of love – a special day on which people around the world, particularly couples, take time out of their hectic schedules to express their love and appreciation for one another by showering them with cards, flowers, candy and gifts. One day a

“If you need anything, just let me know …” If you’re a family caregiver, you’ve probably heard this offer countless times. Or maybe you’ve made this gesture yourself to a friend or colleague who’s caring for a loved one. It’s a common refrain from well-meaning people who want to help, but simply don’t know how

January is National Get Organized Month. For many people, the word “organized” brings to mind closets, desks or calendars. I’d like to urge you to think about organizing your medical records. Proper organization of these files could save a life, maybe even your own. Consider, for example, what might happen if you faced

Happy New Year! The New Year brings a time of resolutions and new beginnings full of possibilities. I am just returning home from visiting family for the holidays. I can’t begin to tell you how much I treasure the time I get to spend with them, especially now that the family is spread all around.

As I reflect on the holiday season, I’m reminded of Christmas’ past. I have so many fond memories of long-awaited visits with family and friends, surprise gifts and hard-to-hold back laughter. More than anything, my fondest memories are of times spent with my family. Up until nine years ago, it meant the whole family gathering

November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and Caring Hearts offices throughout the country have been joining in efforts to promote awareness of this troubling disease and to share information about available assistance for those affected and their caregivers. We, at the Caring Hearts corporate office also took part by organizing various fundraisers and

Last month I had the privilege of participating in an extraordinary fund-raising effort co-sponsored by some of our Philadelphia offices for the Great Guys Group in Wayne, Pa. Its mission blends beautifully with ours, so I jumped at the chance to join in the Caring Hearts Ruby 5K Run & Walk. The greater Philadelphia

Throughout October, you’ve likely seen dozens of pink ribbons donning hundreds of products, services and events all to promote awareness of breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 200,000 people, including about 2,000 men, are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Of them, about 40,000 (440 men) die. Statistics like these are

Although it’s been years, summer always fills me with nostalgia of spending precious time with loved ones in my hometown of Raceland, Kentucky. Back then, summer meant coming home from Florida to spend time with the whole extended family – aunts, uncles, cousins, and of course, my grandparents. It was a simpler time, but

Everyone loves summer, but with the rising mercury breaking record temps across the nation, it’s critical to take extra precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from the sun’s powerful rays. Especially for the elderly and very young, too much exposure to extreme sun and the summer heat can cause significant health risks, including

Hi, I’m Emma Dickison, president of Caring Hearts and Direct Link, as well as a Certified Senior Advisor and Certified Franchise Executive. I’m excited to join the world of blogging and even more thrilled to unveil Caring Hearts new and improved website! As president of one of the nation’s leading senior care providers and the

Americans are living longer today than ever before, and while a longer life expectancy is certainly something to celebrate, it is not without its challenges. According to the Alliance for Health Reform, 20 percent of seniors are living with 5 or more chronic conditions, seeing an average of 14 different physicians and using about 50

Despite the best of intentions, family care-giving can quickly become a difficult and overwhelming task. Known as the “Sandwich Generation,” millions of Americans are understandably feeling the strain of caring for aging parents and raising families, all while managing demanding careers and tending to household duties. Not only can this strain cause tension between