Unemployment Rate in Nevada Climbs to 8% in November - KTVN Channel 2 - Reno Tahoe News Weather, Video -
Visit the Link Above to View the Right At Home Reno News Article
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Science Says: Eight Reasons to Be Socially Engaged
Science Says: Eight Reasons to Be Socially Engaged
Shared via AddThis
Visit http://www.poststat.net/rightathome/pub.59/issue.1149/article.4778/ for full article
Shared via AddThis
Visit http://www.poststat.net/rightathome/pub.59/issue.1149/article.4778/ for full article
Monday, August 31, 2009
Team up to End Alzheimer's with Right at Home
Hello Friends,
On Saturday October 10th Mark and I, along with approximately 50 Right at Home employees have teamed up to make a difference in the fight to end Alzheimer’s.
Our team will attend the Alzheimer’s Association “Move to End Alzheimer’s Memory Walk.” One of our beloved clients Susan Dugan and her husband Paul Dugan are Special Honorees. Additionally, Jen Jackson (reporter for channel 2 news and Right at Home caregiver) will be covering this extraordinary event.
It is my personal goal to support a better life for those living with Alzheimer’s and to help with the financial and emotional burdens of life as a caregiver.
I am calling on you my friends to help the Right at Home team support the Alzheimer’s Association with a small monetary donation. If you can support us please send a check made out to the Alzheimer’s Association to;
Elaine Wimbush
Right at Home
6490 S McCarran C-19
Reno Nevada 89509
Thank you for your consideration and be sure to check us out at www.rightathomereno.com where you will find info about our business, daily twitters, and blog.
Sincerely,
Elaine Wimbush
On Saturday October 10th Mark and I, along with approximately 50 Right at Home employees have teamed up to make a difference in the fight to end Alzheimer’s.
Our team will attend the Alzheimer’s Association “Move to End Alzheimer’s Memory Walk.” One of our beloved clients Susan Dugan and her husband Paul Dugan are Special Honorees. Additionally, Jen Jackson (reporter for channel 2 news and Right at Home caregiver) will be covering this extraordinary event.
It is my personal goal to support a better life for those living with Alzheimer’s and to help with the financial and emotional burdens of life as a caregiver.
I am calling on you my friends to help the Right at Home team support the Alzheimer’s Association with a small monetary donation. If you can support us please send a check made out to the Alzheimer’s Association to;
Elaine Wimbush
Right at Home
6490 S McCarran C-19
Reno Nevada 89509
Thank you for your consideration and be sure to check us out at www.rightathomereno.com where you will find info about our business, daily twitters, and blog.
Sincerely,
Elaine Wimbush
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Healthy Aging: Simple Lifestyle Changes Improve Quality of Life
Healthy Aging: Simple Lifestyle Changes Improve Quality of Life
By (Elaine Wimbush)
A healthy lifestyle begins with small steps and setting achievable goals. Getting started is easier than you might think, even for the elderly. It is never too late for seniors to take control of their health and focus on the positive aspects of aging instead of the myths and negative stereotypes. With the right mindset, seniors can embrace growing older and start on the journey to healthy aging using items found around a typical home.
“Living life to the fullest as you age can be challenging, yet exciting. Making an effort to better your health can improve your quality of life greatly,” said Allen Hager, CEO and founder of Right at Home, a national provider of in-home care with 165 locations in 41 states. “Awareness and education are important to empowering seniors to age gracefully.” The following household items and activities can act as simple ways for seniors to begin their healthy aging journey.
Physical:
Before undertaking any type of physical program, seniors should talk to their doctor. There may be activities seniors should avoid due to personal health situations.
· A notepad and pen – Stay on track by writing down goals and recording your progress.
· Two cans of soup – Actually, any canned goods from the pantry serve as great hand weights and can be used help to improve arm strength. While sitting in a chair, place both arms out flat in front of you and lift the can up about six inches. Repeat five times. Remember, it’s not a race, start slow and increase your repetitions as you are able.
· Kitchen timer – Start with five minutes of exercise and increase time as ability warrants. Making slow, steady progress builds a routine and endurance.
· Glass of water – Among other health benefits, staying hydrated can prevent temporary memory impairment. Try to drink at least six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily.
· Healthy snacks and meals – Eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fibers and low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. Make foods that are flavorful and simple to prepare. If your loved one needs assistance preparing healthy meals or snacks, consider hiring caregivers that for a few hours a week to help with advanced meal and snack preparation.
Mental Fitness:
· Deck of cards – Games keep the brain working and cognitive skills healthy. Play a game of Solitaire or flip the cards over and match numbers or suits to improve memory.
· Calculator – Maintain cognitive skills and financial health by keeping close track of monthly expenses.
· Newspaper – Reading exercises the mind and helps the ability to focus. Most newspapers also include a daily crossword puzzle, which helps delay memory impairment.
Overall Well-being:
· Calendar – Record doctor’s appointments, including preventative care visits. Also keep track of loved ones’ anniversaries and birthdays.
· Pillow – Getting seven to eight hours of sleep each night is important. Commit to a regular sleep schedule and develop a bedtime ritual, such as listening to soothing music or taking a bath.
· Telephone – Staying connected with friends and family is good for emotional well-being.
There is a higher probability of healthy aging success when there is support and encouragement from a senior’s loved ones. Families and friends can cheer on the seniors in their lives by giving them a “Healthy Aging” basket that includes some of the items listed above. About Right at Home®Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companion and personal care and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently. Right at Home directly employs all care-giving staff, each of whom are thoroughly screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering a client's home. Right At Home Reno is one of more than 165 franchise locations across the U.S. For more information, contact Christy Cunningham (Community Outreach Administrator), or visit www.rightathomereno.com.
By (Elaine Wimbush)
A healthy lifestyle begins with small steps and setting achievable goals. Getting started is easier than you might think, even for the elderly. It is never too late for seniors to take control of their health and focus on the positive aspects of aging instead of the myths and negative stereotypes. With the right mindset, seniors can embrace growing older and start on the journey to healthy aging using items found around a typical home.
“Living life to the fullest as you age can be challenging, yet exciting. Making an effort to better your health can improve your quality of life greatly,” said Allen Hager, CEO and founder of Right at Home, a national provider of in-home care with 165 locations in 41 states. “Awareness and education are important to empowering seniors to age gracefully.” The following household items and activities can act as simple ways for seniors to begin their healthy aging journey.
Physical:
Before undertaking any type of physical program, seniors should talk to their doctor. There may be activities seniors should avoid due to personal health situations.
· A notepad and pen – Stay on track by writing down goals and recording your progress.
· Two cans of soup – Actually, any canned goods from the pantry serve as great hand weights and can be used help to improve arm strength. While sitting in a chair, place both arms out flat in front of you and lift the can up about six inches. Repeat five times. Remember, it’s not a race, start slow and increase your repetitions as you are able.
· Kitchen timer – Start with five minutes of exercise and increase time as ability warrants. Making slow, steady progress builds a routine and endurance.
· Glass of water – Among other health benefits, staying hydrated can prevent temporary memory impairment. Try to drink at least six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily.
· Healthy snacks and meals – Eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fibers and low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. Make foods that are flavorful and simple to prepare. If your loved one needs assistance preparing healthy meals or snacks, consider hiring caregivers that for a few hours a week to help with advanced meal and snack preparation.
Mental Fitness:
· Deck of cards – Games keep the brain working and cognitive skills healthy. Play a game of Solitaire or flip the cards over and match numbers or suits to improve memory.
· Calculator – Maintain cognitive skills and financial health by keeping close track of monthly expenses.
· Newspaper – Reading exercises the mind and helps the ability to focus. Most newspapers also include a daily crossword puzzle, which helps delay memory impairment.
Overall Well-being:
· Calendar – Record doctor’s appointments, including preventative care visits. Also keep track of loved ones’ anniversaries and birthdays.
· Pillow – Getting seven to eight hours of sleep each night is important. Commit to a regular sleep schedule and develop a bedtime ritual, such as listening to soothing music or taking a bath.
· Telephone – Staying connected with friends and family is good for emotional well-being.
There is a higher probability of healthy aging success when there is support and encouragement from a senior’s loved ones. Families and friends can cheer on the seniors in their lives by giving them a “Healthy Aging” basket that includes some of the items listed above. About Right at Home®Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companion and personal care and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently. Right at Home directly employs all care-giving staff, each of whom are thoroughly screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering a client's home. Right At Home Reno is one of more than 165 franchise locations across the U.S. For more information, contact Christy Cunningham (Community Outreach Administrator), or visit www.rightathomereno.com.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Memorable Moments
Here at Right at Home Reno, we as an administrative staff feel very strongly about the level of the emotional and meaningful business we are in. The word “business” is almost not appropriate. We consistently express to our caregivers that what we are doing collectively as a team is extremely vital to the well being of others and there is nothing more important. The heartfelt mission that we are on sometimes takes us to levels of heartbreak and happiness. For those whom have cared for others in any capacity can share this concept.
Recently, one of our caregivers was called at 9pm for new hospice client that we were not scheduled to start with until the end of the week, however, the daughter, feeling weary and needing sleep called unexpectedly for respite for the night. Our caregiver jumped out of bed and arrived an hour and a half later. Not sure what to expect, the client passed away 45 minutes later. The daughter later called our office and in her gratefulness, expressed how appreciative she was for our caregiver and her knowledge of the dying process and being with her when her mom passed. Our caregiver, equally touched, summed up the night with “please call me to help people like that again.”
It is moments like this that remind us all of why helping people is not just a source of an occupation but is truly a purpose in life that does just effect one person but many.
- Regina Lodia-House
Staffing Coordinator
Right At Home Reno Office
www.rightathomereno.com
Recently, one of our caregivers was called at 9pm for new hospice client that we were not scheduled to start with until the end of the week, however, the daughter, feeling weary and needing sleep called unexpectedly for respite for the night. Our caregiver jumped out of bed and arrived an hour and a half later. Not sure what to expect, the client passed away 45 minutes later. The daughter later called our office and in her gratefulness, expressed how appreciative she was for our caregiver and her knowledge of the dying process and being with her when her mom passed. Our caregiver, equally touched, summed up the night with “please call me to help people like that again.”
It is moments like this that remind us all of why helping people is not just a source of an occupation but is truly a purpose in life that does just effect one person but many.
- Regina Lodia-House
Staffing Coordinator
Right At Home Reno Office
www.rightathomereno.com
Friday, July 31, 2009
Paul Dugan Article
In the Sunday Reno Gazette Journal, Paul Dugan discusses his life as a caregiver behind the scenes and how local services such as Right At Home in home care and assistance and The Courts memory care, have helped. Please visit the link below to read the full article:
http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/rgj/access/1805111871.html?dids=1805111871:1805111871&FMT=FT&FMTS=ABS:FT&fmac=18f3fa06a58687315c67e8ce38140b0e&date=Jul+26%2C+2009&author=Lenita+Powers&desc=Paul+Dugan+Outgoing+chief+has+some+regrets+as+he+leaves+to+care+for+wife
http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/rgj/access/1805111871.html?dids=1805111871:1805111871&FMT=FT&FMTS=ABS:FT&fmac=18f3fa06a58687315c67e8ce38140b0e&date=Jul+26%2C+2009&author=Lenita+Powers&desc=Paul+Dugan+Outgoing+chief+has+some+regrets+as+he+leaves+to+care+for+wife
Monday, July 27, 2009
Right At Home Receives 2009 Best of Reno Award
U.S. Commerce Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement
WASHINGTON D.C., June 8, 2009 -- Right At Home has been selected for the 2009 Best of Reno Award in the Home Health Service category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).
The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2009 USCA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USCA and data provided by third parties.
About U.S. Commerce Association (USCA)
U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USCA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.
The USCA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.
SOURCE: U.S. Commerce AssociationCONTACT:U.S. Commerce AssociationEmail: PublicRelations@us-ca.orgURL: http://www.us-ca.org
WASHINGTON D.C., June 8, 2009 -- Right At Home has been selected for the 2009 Best of Reno Award in the Home Health Service category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).
The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2009 USCA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USCA and data provided by third parties.
About U.S. Commerce Association (USCA)
U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USCA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.
The USCA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.
SOURCE: U.S. Commerce AssociationCONTACT:U.S. Commerce AssociationEmail: PublicRelations@us-ca.orgURL: http://www.us-ca.org
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Cosumer Alert: Diligence and Education Thwart Scams
Bernie Madoff-like ponzi frauds, foreign lottery winnings ploys and work-at-home check cashing schemes. These are just a few of the scams that have made headlines over the past year. Scams and fraudulent business practices that intend to swindle can impact anyone including the affluent and highly educated, as well as the non-native speaking, the poor and the elderly. In difficult economic times, scammers continually search for new ways to deceive. Recently publicized scams include individuals posing as bank officials offering to refinance mortgages or to confirm account numbers via the Internet or over the phone.
Anyone with a phone, mail box, Internet access or front door can be a possible scam target. Scammers prey on the weakness of human nature or a specific demographic group. They understand that most people want a “great deal” or desire to be wealthier and more beautiful. Scams are often targeted to individuals with unique backgrounds and special needs, including seniors.
“Scam artists steal more than money for a product or service. They steal a senior’s dignity, trust and self esteem,” said Allen Hager, CEO and founder of Right at Home, a national provider of in-home care with 160 locations in 41 states. “Education and awareness are key components of stopping scams and protecting our loved ones.”
It has been the experience of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that the elderly are targeted for fraud for several reasons:
- Seniors grew up in an era in which your word was your bond and a handshake closed a deal. They assume that if someone seems nice, they must be trustworthy.
- These individuals were raised to be polite, especially if they are showing the time to care. Many scammers prey on their loneliness and desire for conversation.
- Seniors have money to spend. Many seniors have retirement savings, own their home and have an excellent credit rating.
- As seniors strive for independence, they have an increased need for goods and services to maintain their homes. They make purchase decisions without the input of others.
- Mental or physical impairments are used by perpetrators to confuse the elderly. Scammers can give one price, but demand more money after the service is completed, claiming the senior did not clearly hear or completely understand the price.
- Seniors are least likely to report a fraud since they are afraid that relatives will doubt their mental competency. They fear that they will seem foolish since they fell for a fraud.
Most common senior scams according to FBI:
- Health Insurance (“rolling lab” schemes, medical equipment fraud, Medicare fraud)
- Counterfeit Prescription Drugs (“Special deals” or on-line purchases)
- Funeral and Cemetery Fraud (contracts, refund terms, embalming rules)
- Telemarketing (“get rich quick” schemes, travel offers, often involve prizes)
- Anti-aging Products (vitamins, creams, “secret” formulas, “breakthroughs”)
- Investment Schemes (advance-fee, Nigerian letter, Prime bank notes)
- Internet Fraud (non-delivery of items, credit/debit card fraud)
- Charitable Fraud (non-existent charity)
Things to remember to stop scamming by Stopseniorscams.org:
1. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. When it comes to a "now or never" opportunity, choose "never."
3. Keep account numbers, codes and passwords private. Be wary of giving any information out to anyone over the phone unless you initiated the call.
4. Shred bills, junk mail and receipts before discarding them.
5. Don't be afraid to report your experiences. If you feel uncomfortable, tell someone.
If you have any questions regarding a company, contact your local Better Business Bureau (BBB) at www.bbb.org to check its service or complaint record. To find out your legal rights if you or a family member has been a victim of a fraud, contact the Consumer Protection Division of your state Office of the Attorney General. A number of federal and state laws are designed to protect consumers from unethical business practices including the Federal Trade Commission or the Postal Inspector.
If an individual has been victimized once, he or she becomes a more likely target for additional scams. You can take precautions to avoid a second incident, including changing the senior’s phone number and making it unlisted. The telephone company can also block all outgoing 900 numbers. In addition, a family member, caregiver or friend can assist seniors with sorting mail and identifying possible scams.
About Right at Home®Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companion and personal care and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently. Right at Home directly employs all care-giving staff, each of whom are thoroughly screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering a client's home. The Right At Home Reno Office is one of 160 franchise locations across the U.S. It is located at 6490 S McCarran Blvd. Ste. C-19. For more information, contact Christy Cunningham, or visit www.righathomereno.com
Anyone with a phone, mail box, Internet access or front door can be a possible scam target. Scammers prey on the weakness of human nature or a specific demographic group. They understand that most people want a “great deal” or desire to be wealthier and more beautiful. Scams are often targeted to individuals with unique backgrounds and special needs, including seniors.
“Scam artists steal more than money for a product or service. They steal a senior’s dignity, trust and self esteem,” said Allen Hager, CEO and founder of Right at Home, a national provider of in-home care with 160 locations in 41 states. “Education and awareness are key components of stopping scams and protecting our loved ones.”
It has been the experience of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that the elderly are targeted for fraud for several reasons:
- Seniors grew up in an era in which your word was your bond and a handshake closed a deal. They assume that if someone seems nice, they must be trustworthy.
- These individuals were raised to be polite, especially if they are showing the time to care. Many scammers prey on their loneliness and desire for conversation.
- Seniors have money to spend. Many seniors have retirement savings, own their home and have an excellent credit rating.
- As seniors strive for independence, they have an increased need for goods and services to maintain their homes. They make purchase decisions without the input of others.
- Mental or physical impairments are used by perpetrators to confuse the elderly. Scammers can give one price, but demand more money after the service is completed, claiming the senior did not clearly hear or completely understand the price.
- Seniors are least likely to report a fraud since they are afraid that relatives will doubt their mental competency. They fear that they will seem foolish since they fell for a fraud.
Most common senior scams according to FBI:
- Health Insurance (“rolling lab” schemes, medical equipment fraud, Medicare fraud)
- Counterfeit Prescription Drugs (“Special deals” or on-line purchases)
- Funeral and Cemetery Fraud (contracts, refund terms, embalming rules)
- Telemarketing (“get rich quick” schemes, travel offers, often involve prizes)
- Anti-aging Products (vitamins, creams, “secret” formulas, “breakthroughs”)
- Investment Schemes (advance-fee, Nigerian letter, Prime bank notes)
- Internet Fraud (non-delivery of items, credit/debit card fraud)
- Charitable Fraud (non-existent charity)
Things to remember to stop scamming by Stopseniorscams.org:
1. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. When it comes to a "now or never" opportunity, choose "never."
3. Keep account numbers, codes and passwords private. Be wary of giving any information out to anyone over the phone unless you initiated the call.
4. Shred bills, junk mail and receipts before discarding them.
5. Don't be afraid to report your experiences. If you feel uncomfortable, tell someone.
If you have any questions regarding a company, contact your local Better Business Bureau (BBB) at www.bbb.org to check its service or complaint record. To find out your legal rights if you or a family member has been a victim of a fraud, contact the Consumer Protection Division of your state Office of the Attorney General. A number of federal and state laws are designed to protect consumers from unethical business practices including the Federal Trade Commission or the Postal Inspector.
If an individual has been victimized once, he or she becomes a more likely target for additional scams. You can take precautions to avoid a second incident, including changing the senior’s phone number and making it unlisted. The telephone company can also block all outgoing 900 numbers. In addition, a family member, caregiver or friend can assist seniors with sorting mail and identifying possible scams.
About Right at Home®Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companion and personal care and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently. Right at Home directly employs all care-giving staff, each of whom are thoroughly screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering a client's home. The Right At Home Reno Office is one of 160 franchise locations across the U.S. It is located at 6490 S McCarran Blvd. Ste. C-19. For more information, contact Christy Cunningham, or visit www.righathomereno.com
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Locally Owned and Operated In-Home Care Agency Reaches Out to Those Facing the Reality of Caring for Loved Ones
Reno, NV June 29, 2009 – As the number of baby boomers reaching retirement age steadily grows in the Reno, Sparks, and Carson City areas, family members of aging loved ones are facing the difficult task of providing care while continuing to work, parent and maintain their marital and social relationships.
According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, today, 83 percent of those providing care to seniors are unpaid individuals such as family members, friends, and neighbors. Thus, now more than ever it is critical for family caregivers to understand the health risks associated with the demands being placed upon them.
Right at Home of Reno, a leading local provider of in-home companion and personal care to seniors and others, understands the challenges family members face when providing care to an aging loved one. It is with these compassionate, selfless relatives in mind that Right at Home offers these useful tips to help improve the quality of life for family caregivers.
Managing the Stress
Family caregivers take on a wide range of responsibilities for their aging loved ones. They provide varying degrees of support, including tasks such as running errands, making financial decisions, giving 24/7 personal care and liaising with medical professionals. Undeniably, family caregivers are faced with a vast array of complex issues.
Fortunately for family caregivers, there are steps to take that can help alleviate some of the pressures associated with caring for others. In their tips for caregivers, AARP notes, “taking care of yourself and your needs is like performing regular maintenance on your car.” The organization offers several ways for caregivers to nurture themselves and improve their well-being. These include:
· Eating nutritious meals
· Exercising
· Engaging in social activities
· Asking for help from friends and relatives
· Taking vacations
· Talking to friends and co-workers in similar situations
· Clearing your mind on a daily basis through meditation, walking, reading or listening to music
· Planning and setting priorities with realistic goals for caregiving responsibilities
· Focusing on the positive and holding family meetings when conflict arises
Given that most family members begin providing care to their loved ones without training or counseling, they often are not aware of the overwhelming stress associated with it. For that reason, it is important to receive counseling and to develop a plan of action prior to making a caregiving commitment.
The Older Americans Act, passed in 1965, provides resources to the State of Nevada in support of caregivers. Programs are offered at minimal to no cost, and include: counseling, caregiver training, respite care, adult day care, meals, and more.
In addition to state-funded programs, professional in-home care providers, such as Right at Home of Reno, work with families to relieve the burden placed on them as primary caregivers. Professional in-home care agencies offer trained, fully screened, insured and bonded caregivers who can offer services for as little as a few hours a week, when a family caregiver simply needs respite, to 24 hours a day. Their services include companion care, which includes medication reminders, meal preparation and light housekeeping. Some in-home care agencies also provide personal care, encompassing bathing, toileting and 24-hour emergency response.
Lastly, caregivers should consider joining a support group. Talking to others in a compassionate environment where everyone is facing similar personal situations can help caregivers vent their stressful emotions.
About Right at Home
Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companion and personal care and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently. Select offices provide light skilled nursing as well. Right at Home directly employs all caregiving staff, each of whom are thoroughly screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering a client’s home. All ongoing care is monitored and supervised by more than 160 local independent franchisees. Right at Home’s national office is based in Omaha, Nebraska with franchise offices located in 41 states nationwide. For more information on Right at Home, visit the company’s website at www.rightathome.net. To sign up for Right at Home’s free adult caregiving eNewsletter, Caring Right at Home, please go to www.caringnews.com.
According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, today, 83 percent of those providing care to seniors are unpaid individuals such as family members, friends, and neighbors. Thus, now more than ever it is critical for family caregivers to understand the health risks associated with the demands being placed upon them.
Right at Home of Reno, a leading local provider of in-home companion and personal care to seniors and others, understands the challenges family members face when providing care to an aging loved one. It is with these compassionate, selfless relatives in mind that Right at Home offers these useful tips to help improve the quality of life for family caregivers.
Managing the Stress
Family caregivers take on a wide range of responsibilities for their aging loved ones. They provide varying degrees of support, including tasks such as running errands, making financial decisions, giving 24/7 personal care and liaising with medical professionals. Undeniably, family caregivers are faced with a vast array of complex issues.
Fortunately for family caregivers, there are steps to take that can help alleviate some of the pressures associated with caring for others. In their tips for caregivers, AARP notes, “taking care of yourself and your needs is like performing regular maintenance on your car.” The organization offers several ways for caregivers to nurture themselves and improve their well-being. These include:
· Eating nutritious meals
· Exercising
· Engaging in social activities
· Asking for help from friends and relatives
· Taking vacations
· Talking to friends and co-workers in similar situations
· Clearing your mind on a daily basis through meditation, walking, reading or listening to music
· Planning and setting priorities with realistic goals for caregiving responsibilities
· Focusing on the positive and holding family meetings when conflict arises
Given that most family members begin providing care to their loved ones without training or counseling, they often are not aware of the overwhelming stress associated with it. For that reason, it is important to receive counseling and to develop a plan of action prior to making a caregiving commitment.
The Older Americans Act, passed in 1965, provides resources to the State of Nevada in support of caregivers. Programs are offered at minimal to no cost, and include: counseling, caregiver training, respite care, adult day care, meals, and more.
In addition to state-funded programs, professional in-home care providers, such as Right at Home of Reno, work with families to relieve the burden placed on them as primary caregivers. Professional in-home care agencies offer trained, fully screened, insured and bonded caregivers who can offer services for as little as a few hours a week, when a family caregiver simply needs respite, to 24 hours a day. Their services include companion care, which includes medication reminders, meal preparation and light housekeeping. Some in-home care agencies also provide personal care, encompassing bathing, toileting and 24-hour emergency response.
Lastly, caregivers should consider joining a support group. Talking to others in a compassionate environment where everyone is facing similar personal situations can help caregivers vent their stressful emotions.
About Right at Home
Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companion and personal care and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently. Select offices provide light skilled nursing as well. Right at Home directly employs all caregiving staff, each of whom are thoroughly screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering a client’s home. All ongoing care is monitored and supervised by more than 160 local independent franchisees. Right at Home’s national office is based in Omaha, Nebraska with franchise offices located in 41 states nationwide. For more information on Right at Home, visit the company’s website at www.rightathome.net. To sign up for Right at Home’s free adult caregiving eNewsletter, Caring Right at Home, please go to www.caringnews.com.
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