If your parents are anything like ours, they've poured their hearts into creating a better life for you and their community. Now that they're in their golden years, they deserve to relax and savor the fruits of their labor.
However, as our loved ones age, the need for extra support around the home becomes evident, whether it's preparing meals or managing medications. When they can no longer care for themselves as they once did, worries about their safety and well-being arise. It's natural to think about their quality of life and how you can give back to them while balancing your own responsibilities.
Most seniors -94%, according to Forbes- prefer to remain in their homes as they age. If the senior in your life wants to stay at home as they get older, what's the best way to make that happen? For many families, non-medical home care offers a compassionate and affordable solution. In-home care is quickly becoming the first choice for older seniors because it supports your family while allowing your loved one to age gracefully in the familiar, safe surroundings they're used to.
If you're committed to keeping your mom, dad, or senior relative safe and happy at home, working with a home care agency might be the best way to achieve that goal.
When it comes to maintaining good senior health, early intervention is often key. Unfortunately, many adults with senior parents are stretched too thin to notice signs that their mom or dad needs help around the house. Wondering whether you really need to consider home care for you, your parents, or your loved ones? Keep these warning signs in mind.
As men and women get older, it's perfectly natural for them to have some aspects of mental decline. Age-related memory loss doesn't affect everyone, but when it involves your loved one, it can be a lot to digest. When forgetfulness begins to impact your parents' quality of life, it's time to take action.
Commonly referred to as mild cognitive impairment (MCI), this forgetfulness often arises from reduced blood flow to the brain, a phenomenon frequently associated with aging. Other contributing factors can include typical neural lapses and a decline in hippocampal function, which is a crucial area of the brain responsible for memory. These changes can lead to frustrating side effects, such as
Seniors showing any of these signs can greatly benefit from non-medical home care providers who can help them with their daily tasks. This support can include reminding them of scheduled appointments, preparing meals, light housekeeping, and assisting with reading and other essential activities. Professional caregivers can also incorporate healthy memory practices into your loved one's daily routine. Strategies may include social interaction, engaging in simple strategy games, maintaining a nutritious diet, and participating in light exercises like slow walks around the block.
As your parents or senior loved ones get older, they often have trouble completing dayto-day tasks that are fundamental to living a normal life. There are several activities of daily living, or ADLs, that senior citizens struggle with and include
A reliable caregiver from a trusted senior care agency in Larkspur, CO, can help make daily life much easier for your elder relative. If they have trouble putting on or tying their shoes, your caregiver is there to help them choose their shoes and put them on correctly.
If your senior citizen isn't eating healthy food, your caregiver can help create a nutritious meal plan and assist them in preparing the food they need for energy and daily activities. When searching for a home care agency, make sure they offer tailored care plans that address your loved one's needs, not someone who has similar issues.
If you notice that your loved one can't keep themselves clean and groomed, it could be a sign that their health is on the decline. It could also be a red flag that your senior may be experiencing the early stages of dementia. Other signs include:
The best non-medical caregivers are trained to attend to your loved one's needs and quality of life as they move through the Functional Assessment Staging test of Alzheimer's Disease, also known as the FAST Scale. If you believe your parent or relative might be in the early stages of dementia, it's absolutely critical to work with a home care business like ameriCARE that specializes in dementia care.
There's a reason why almost 12 million people in the United States rely on some type of non-medical home care. Working with the right home care agency and team caregivers can be life-changing for seniors who need help but don't want to live in a nursing home. Here are just a few of the most effective services that help older adults stay happy, healthy, and active as they age.
If you notice that the senior in your life can't or won't maintain their hygiene and health, hiring an experienced caregiver can help. They'll assist with daily tasks like:
Companion home care is a unique type of in-home support tailored for individuals who require help with daily living tasks while also benefiting from meaningful social interaction and emotional support. Unlike other care options that primarily focus on medical or personal needs, companion and lifestyle home care helps form strong personal bonds and improves the overall quality of life.
People who benefit the most from companionship and lifestyle home care include:
Veterans are a special breed. They're service members who have made sacrifices for our country and deserve dignified, respectful attention. In-home care gives Veterans customized, compassionate care when they need it most. Whether they have new health challenges after returning from combat or need an extra hand throughout the day, home care can make a meaningful difference for those who deserve the utmost respect and compassion.
In-home care can be very helpful for Veterans suffering from:
Taking care of someone with Alzheimer's can be quite challenging, as it involves managing a mix of complex and changing needs. Those living with the disease may face memory problems, mood swings, and difficulties in communicating. Alzheimer's care includes various services aimed at providing a supportive environment that helps maintain both physical and emotional well-being, even as the disease evolves.
Common Alzheimer's care services include:
Giving the older adult in your life the gift of in-home care can be a hugely positive decision on multiple levels. It not only gives them access to high-quality care in a place where they feel comfortable - it gives them the independence they crave and have earned over their lifetime.
Some of the most significant advantages of hiring a home care agency to help your senior loved one include:
Great in-home caregivers support your loved one's independence while providing the necessary assistance to ensure their safety and well-being. When you choose an agency that creates tailored care plans, your loved one can continue to live their lives on their terms, making choices about their daily activities and routines with the support of caregivers.
Receiving care at home offers a unique set of benefits that facility settings just can't match. Home care companies like ameriCARE offer personalized care services designed to cater to specific needs while allowing seniors to stay in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes.
Choosing non-medical home care in Larkspur, CO, can be a cost-effective solution, especially when compared to long-term, residential options like nursing homes. Care provided in facilities typically incurs significant costs for lodging and extra services. On the other hand, home care enables clients to receive tailored support at a much lower price.
Having you and other members of your family involved in your loved one's care process is integral. If you're on the hunt for a home care agency to work with, make sure to choose one that encourages your involvement. This collaborative approach allows for care that aligns with your family values, expectations, and overall goals.
When you work with a senior care agency that carefully selects caregivers and provides ongoing training to provide a range of services, your parent or relative benefits greatly. ameriCARE caregivers are seasoned professionals, dedicated to serving others in ways that often go unnoticed.
We know that choosing the best senior care agency for your loved is a top priority. Some key factors to consider include:
The agency you choose should have a proven track record and should be transparent when talking about caregiver credentials, training, and programs.
Working with a home care company that pushes open communication, transparency, and responsiveness keeps everyone in your circle informed about care plan updates and adjustments.
Look for a company that offers a robust range of senior care services and provides custom care plans that meet your senior's unique needs.
Inquire about the agency's caregiver recruitment process, including background checks, screening procedures, and ongoing training.
By taking these factors into account, you can make a well-informed choice when selecting a home care agency that provides the quality, compassion, and support necessary to improve the well-being and comfort of yourself or your loved one.
At ameriCARE, we understand that in-home care should reflect the individuality of those we assist. Our guiding principle focuses on creating a caregiving experience that is tailored, uplifting, and impactful. We aim to broaden and strengthen your care circle.
Our dedication to conscientious in-home care has helped establish our reputation for outstanding service. We believe that non-medical in-home care holds the potential to sustain and enrich one's quality of life, regardless of the challenges a person faces. By adopting a holistic perspective on care, we ensure our services are thorough, nurturing, and beneficial to our clients' overall wellness.
At ameriCARE, our goal is to deliver caregiving that is reliable, compassionate, and respectful. We are committed to positively influencing the lives of those we assist by making certain that our care is more than just a service - it's a source of comfort and empowerment. We aim to foster an atmosphere where each person feels appreciated, supported, and honored, thereby enhancing their capacity to live while improving their quality of life.
Our agencies are at the forefront of a new kind of in-home care that extends beyond traditional services. Unlike some home care companies, we believe in addressing the needs of the whole person.
To that end, we see care as a collaborative effort. Our caregivers are dedicated professionals who serve others in often unrecognized ways. We honor their commitment by providing top-notch training and career opportunities, ensuring they have the skills and support necessary to deliver exceptional care.
By going above and beyond to provide care that exceeds your expectations, we help ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your family. Seniors, their adult children, and other relatives choose ameriCARE because we're committed to:
Our care plans are customized to address the specific requirements of every individual and their family. We consider personal preferences, health issues, and family relationships to deliver care that is both personal and impactful.
We utilize cutting-edge technology to enhance your home care experience. With straightforward booking and payment methods, along with real-time updates and feedback, our technological solutions simplify and optimize care management.
If you're looking for help after surgery, a break from caregiving, or just someone to keep you company, our trustworthy caregivers are here for you. We provide a free care assessment with no strings attached to help you develop a home care plan that's just right for you.
The first step to seeing your loved one happy at home is to call ameriCARE for a free, no-obligation care assessment. Let us help you create a home care plan that brings your family peace of mind, comfort, and support. Request More Info today, and by tomorrow, you'll be closer to keeping your loved one safe and comfortable, no matter how many miles you may be apart.
Ready to learn more or need personalized support? Contact ameriCARE today! Our dedicated team is here to answer your questions, provide expert advice, and guide you through every step of the homecare journey.
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The Bay Area is recovering after several storms, along with king tides, caused severe flooding in parts of the region.King tides bring 2nd day of flooding to Marin Co., Hwy 101 inundated in Larkspur: 'Bit of mayhem'In the North Bay, there was a second day of epic flooding for Marin County, where king tides, combined with a storm surge, left roads and businesses underwater for hours.Floodwater was rising fast in Larkspur at the Marin RV Park. The driveway was cut off by water in less than 15 minut...
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The Bay Area is recovering after several storms, along with king tides, caused severe flooding in parts of the region.
In the North Bay, there was a second day of epic flooding for Marin County, where king tides, combined with a storm surge, left roads and businesses underwater for hours.
Floodwater was rising fast in Larkspur at the Marin RV Park. The driveway was cut off by water in less than 15 minutes on Saturday.
"So, it's been a mess today," said Roy Demicco.
Demicco is living through a second day of flooding, brought on by the highest king tides recorded since 1998, combined with a lot of rain. Demicco hopes his RV stays dry.
"The plan is to get my son out of there. He's coming soon. We're going to let it do its thing and come back this afternoon," Demicco said.
Residents were moving fast to get small cars out of the high water. Managers tried to warn everyone.
"If you look down our driveway, we're four feet deep. Some people moved RVs to higher ground. We had space to accommodate," said Manager Sed Conklin.
Around 11 a.m., things got bad as flooding took over both directions of Highway 101. Cars were stranded.
"As I tried to pass through the bigger part of the flood, I'm in a Mini Cooper, and it was too low. Here I sit," said Ruthie Wahlborg.
The high water created unreal images like on 101. One driver could be seen clearly exasperated when her car lost power.
The CHP was holding traffic for a time, then reduced it to one lane.
A driver shared a video clip of a car floating away near the Lucky Drive exit. The driver, wet but OK, declined to speak with us.
The Central Marin Fire Department kept up with a lot of calls.
"But as you can see, a bit of mayhem this afternoon. Our message: turn around. Don't drown. If you need help, call 911," said Central Marin Fire Battalion Chief Brian Peterson.
They were sandbagging at Shineology car wash. Managers said their detailing garage was flooded and the gas pumps were likely damaged.
"We weren't expecting this much water. Everybody is scared," said Manager Jose Son.
Workers at the nearby Trader Joe's watched the drama unfold as the store was cut off by flooding.
"Honestly, I find it cool. I've never seen anything like this. Not really cool, but it's crazy to see," said Lula Leopard.
King Tides and heavy rain early Saturday caused several roads to be flooded around the Bay Area amid a coastal flood watch from the National Weather Service.
U.S. Highway 101 was flooded in both directions in Corte Madera, prompting a severe traffic warning from Caltrans at about 12:45 p.m.
An image taken by ABC7 News reporter Cornell Barnard showed both directions flooded under two to three foot of water.
Traffic was being diverted off the highway at Sir Francis Drake Boulevard due to a full closure with no estimated time for reopening. Drivers were urged to take alternate routes and prepare for delays.
Flooding was also reported by the California Highway Patrol in Sonoma County in the eastbound lanes of state Highway 37 at the interchange with state Highway 121, causing all lanes to be closed as of about 12:30 p.m. The closure is expected to last until at least Monday morning, according to Caltrans.
Also in Sonoma County, state Highway 12 was closed Saturday afternoon in both directions at 8th Street because of about 5-6 inches of water.
The San Francisco Department of Emergency Management urged drivers not to drive through flooded roads.
Another photo by Barnard showed the Grand gas station in Larkspur also flooded in the gas pump filling area.
Along the Peninsula coast, people prepared for the wet weather on Friday, hoping it's not as intense as the Christmas Day storm that damaged homes and power lines last week.
Waves of wind and rain hit communities like Half Moon Bay. On Friday evening, we spoke with a PG&E spokesperson, who says they are keeping an eye on things.
"Coastal areas will be hit particularly hard, about 40-45 mile per hour winds along the coast and about 25 mile per hour winds inland," said Paul Moreno, PG&E spokesperson.
We spoke with a family from San Jose who made the trip to the coast.
"Freezing, it's very cold, but it's fun, we're having fun," said Peter Krieger Senior, San Jose resident.
And the forecast did not deter a couple from Dublin.
"I lived in Seattle for ten years so I don't really mind the rain," said Michelle Thein from Dublin. "And so we kind of read about king tides which I think brought more people out here," her partner said.
San Gregorio resident Paul McGregor took videos of low tide off Pillar Point Harbor, north of Half Moon Bay. Wind surfers were catching some serious air.
Earlier around 3 p.m. Friday afternoon, drone pilot Mike Kolar captured a partial cliff collapse in Santa Cruz near West Cliff Drive and Gretchell Street.
Last April, a portion of West Cliff Drive reopened after a two-year closure from winter storm damage.
PG&E's Paul Moreno says wet weather's impact on the ground can present challenges.
"This won't be as severe as the Christmas storms we just had, but we are getting quite a bit of wet weather and with soggy soils to runoff flooding can be an issue for access for crews," he said.
Floodwaters covered roads in Marin County on Friday as residents braced for another King Tide event.
"We've lived here for 47 years and it's never flooded like it has today for some reason and I can't figure out why," said Dick Ryerson, Larkspur resident.
The Redwood High school parking lot in Larkspur became a place to play.
"It's a lot of fun. It's like wakeboarding but through a parking lot so it's fun," said Jackson Heravi, Redwood High School Student.
Tara Campbell: "What gave you the idea?
"I'm not going to lie. We saw it on TikTok, people doing it down south, and we saw this was flooded, and thought hey, why not?"
Headlamp on and shovel in hand, neighbors helped neighbors into the night.
"I just came home and it was after the high tide. And I have a lot of bark here so I was just trying to clean up a bit because the drains get really stuffed up, so I was just trying to be neighborly and clean them up before tomorrow," said Sharon Bowers, Larkspur resident.
"We've lived in this house for 30 years and we've never had water come as high as it has yesterday (Thursday) and today (Friday)," Linda Suddeth, Larkspur resident.
Linda and her son navigated something new having never had a need for sandbags before.
"Today it was flowing down the side of the house on both sides and into the streets, and filling up the streets, and coming into the garage from the side door and front door. And if anyone drove by during the big puddles, it made a big wake and then it really came in the garage," she said.
It's all about protecting the family home, the home her son's known almost his entire life.
"Yeah, seeing it come through the front of the garage, I'm 31, and haven't seen this," he said.
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