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 Siloam Springs, AR, 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 Siloam Springs, AR, 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.
Selected through a competitive process, the cities of Siloam Springs and Johnson have joined Urban Land Institute Northwest Arkansas' Plan Local Planning Partnership.They will receive customized planning and design assistance and grant-funded financial support as they begin their planning initiatives. Siloam Springs will pursue a Parks and Open Space Plan, while Johnson will work toward a Comprehensive Master Plan update. The Plan Local program is open to municipalities and communities within Benton and Washington counties serving pop...
Selected through a competitive process, the cities of Siloam Springs and Johnson have joined Urban Land Institute Northwest Arkansas' Plan Local Planning Partnership.
They will receive customized planning and design assistance and grant-funded financial support as they begin their planning initiatives. Siloam Springs will pursue a Parks and Open Space Plan, while Johnson will work toward a Comprehensive Master Plan update. The Plan Local program is open to municipalities and communities within Benton and Washington counties serving populations of 30,000 or less, according to a Urban Land Institute Northwest Arkansas news release.
ULI Northwest Arkansas will host an interactive design workshop Thursday to kick off two cities' participation in the partnership, a program that connects communities with planning experts, ULI members and local partners to develop land use plans that guide future growth, according to the release.
It will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Thursday at Mano's on Emma, 132 W Emma Ave., Suite 101 in Springdale.
The workshop will serve as the launching point for each city's engagement in Plan Local, setting the stage for future technical assistance panels, requests for qualifications and consultant work. Attendees will collaborate with city leadership and planning professionals to help shape plans for both communities, according to the release.
Participants will brainstorm ideas related to land use, recreational facilities, transportation and connectivity, policy and financial tools, and strategies that balance short-term wins with long-term goals. The session will begin with presentations from city leaders, followed by group-based discussions and hands-on mapping exercises. Each group will present its top big ideas to inform the cities' planning processes, according to the release.
"This workshop invites professionals and community members to roll up their sleeves and contribute to plans that foster connection, boost local vitality and ensure future growth strengthens each city's unique character," said Jessica Lewallen, Plan Local program director.
About ULI Northwest ArkansasThe Urban Land Institute is a nonprofit education and research institute supported by its members. Its mission is to shape the future of the built environment for the transformative impact in communities worldwide. ULI is the oldest and largest network of cross-disciplinary real estate and land use experts in the world. ULI is its members, delivering the mission, shaping the future of the industry, and creating thriving communities around the globe. Established in 1936, the institute has more than 45,000 members worldwide representing all aspects of land use and development disciplines. For more information about ULI Northwest Arkansas, visit https://arkansas.uli.org.— Staff reports
SILOAM SPRINGS -- Skyler Sexton was the only girl on her high school football team in Colorado, where she played nose tackle on the defensive line.During her sophomore year, Sexton suffered a football injury that landed her in the athletic training room for three months. In that room she recovered physically, but she said she also grew mentally and personally, learning the craft of athletic training."And then I took a class in high school, an athletic training class, that really pushed me to want to become an athletic trai...
SILOAM SPRINGS -- Skyler Sexton was the only girl on her high school football team in Colorado, where she played nose tackle on the defensive line.
During her sophomore year, Sexton suffered a football injury that landed her in the athletic training room for three months. In that room she recovered physically, but she said she also grew mentally and personally, learning the craft of athletic training.
"And then I took a class in high school, an athletic training class, that really pushed me to want to become an athletic trainer," Sexton said. "So I've known since my sophomore year of high school I wanted to be an athletic trainer."
Her current position as Siloam Springs athletic trainer is "actually my dream job," she said. "To be head athletic trainer somewhere where my boys will come through -- this is exactly where I want to be."
An athletic trainer is the first to assist an athlete at the time of an injury, Sexton said. After the athlete is determined to be breathing, an evaluation is given based on the situation and that particular athlete.
"Knowing our athletes is really beneficial, having a good rapport with them," Sexton said. "So when we get out there we can kind of tell, gauge what's wrong or the severity of it."
Depending on the evaluation, the appropriate protocol is taken, Sexton said.
EXTRA HELP
When Sexton was the only athletic trainer for the district, she covered every home sporting event, grades 7 through 12, even while pregnant, she said.
On July 1, the district hired Cam Nichols, a certified athletic trainer, to work with Sexton.
"It has been a huge blessing," Sexton said of the hire.
Sexton said the two divide up the district sports schedule, which makes the work load more manageable. This spring, Sexton will cover predominantly boys and girls soccer. Nichols will cover mostly softball and baseball. They share the track schedule.
Their time is split between covering events and treating students in either of the two athletic training rooms. There is one athletic training room at Panther Stadium fieldhouse and one at the Panther Activity Center.
TRAINING THE TRAINERS
Additionally, the Siloam Springs athletic trainer program hosts a graduate student each semester from the master of athletic training program at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, where Sexton completed her postgraduate degree. Nichols also graduated from the athletic training education program at Arkansas.
"It was the first athletic training program in the SEC at the master's degree level, and we've been at the master's degree level since 2005," said Dr. Elizabeth Parke, teaching associate professor and clinical education coordinator of the Master of Athletic Training program at the University of Arkansas.
"We have our students in classes where they learn educational content, they learn about injuries, but a big component of our program is to send students to local high schools," Parke said.
She added, "I can't break someone's leg in a classroom. I can't hurt someone's knee in a classroom."
Parke said as important as the hands-on experience is, "behind every injury, there's a human. And that injury affects that human. So we don't celebrate the fact that a high school student tore his ACL and is going to be out for the season, but we appreciate the learning opportunities that happen at a clinical site."
In addition to Siloam Springs High School, clinical sites include Bentonville, Bentonville West, Rogers, Rogers Heritage, Springdale, Springdale Har-Ber, Fayetteville, Greenland, Farmington and Shiloh Christian high schools.
Athletic trainers at the high schools mentor the graduate students. These mentors are called preceptors. Preceptors "are willing to not only do their job as an athletic trainer, but also to supervise an athletic training student," Parke said.
"Our preceptor, Skyler, does a really great job of integrating our students into the site there," Parke said of Sexton.
MAKING CONNECTIONS
When Sexton started to work for Siloam Springs schools four years ago, her oldest son was just a toddler. Now she has three sons, all of whom are frequently at games and practices where she works. Her youngest son, who is 7 months old, is frequently seen in the arms of students.
Her oldest son especially loves the cheerleaders.
"He'll come to practices with me, and he'll sit there and hold a sign and do all the cheers with them," Sexton said.
The seniors are especially fond of Sexton's sons, as they've known Sexton the longest.
"I've been here for four years. My first group of freshmen are graduating this year. So I've gotten to know them really well," Sexton said.
One senior, Max Carter, has been especially impacted by Sexton's care and example.
"My junior year of football, I messed up my knee pretty bad, and she helped me a lot, to get through that and get back on the field and get back to playing," Carter said. "So that really meant a lot. And this past season in basketball I've really struggled with ankle problems, and so she's helped a lot with that as well."
Sexton has also inspired Carter's plans for the future.
"She's really helped me decide that what she does is what I want to do," Carter said. "I figured out that physical therapy/athletic training is what I want to do when I get older."
The district does not offer athletic training classes at the high school level, Sexton said. However, when a student shows interest in athletic training, she tries to give the student as much exposure as possible.
In Arkansas, the prettiest small towns pair Ozark mountain scenery and waterfront views with plenty of small-town charm. With 48 million visitors making their way here each year, word is clearly getting out. From Eureka Springs, tucked like a secret into the hills, to the steaming bathhouses of Hot Springs, where Al Capone once came to unwind, the state rewards curious travelers with history, live music, and wilderness around every bend. Whether you are chasing outdoor adventure or a slower, more scenic pace of life, these seven towns are th...
In Arkansas, the prettiest small towns pair Ozark mountain scenery and waterfront views with plenty of small-town charm. With 48 million visitors making their way here each year, word is clearly getting out. From Eureka Springs, tucked like a secret into the hills, to the steaming bathhouses of Hot Springs, where Al Capone once came to unwind, the state rewards curious travelers with history, live music, and wilderness around every bend. Whether you are chasing outdoor adventure or a slower, more scenic pace of life, these seven towns are the prettiest places to start your Arkansas journey.
Eureka Springs is a charming little hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. Most visitors find their perfect starting point in the lively downtown area, which is one of the top highlights of the town. Here, you can enjoy a relaxed stroll to shop, dine, explore art galleries, and visit the fascinating Eureka Springs Historical Museum. The museum, housed inside the beautiful 135-year-old Calif House, showcases a wonderful mix of permanent and rotating exhibits, along with an art gallery filled with paintings, photos, and sculptures.
Just a short drive away, Beaver Park welcomes you with its expansive reservoir featuring nearly 500 miles of shoreline, perfect for swimming and boating in its crystal-clear waters. For outdoor lovers, the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit, where you can see some of the most remarkable wildlife around, including Chief, a graceful 17-year-old lion known for his playful antics and lively spirit.
Amidst the stunning Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking exciting hikes, mountain biking adventures, and encounters with fascinating wildlife. Before venturing into the great outdoors, be sure to stop by Bathhouse Row for a relaxing soak in the hot springs—it's the perfect way to unwind and melt away any tension. The charming complex features eight historic bathhouse buildings that display beautiful architecture from the 1800s. After your visit, nature continues to invite exploration, with wonderful spots like Garvan Woodland Gardens, where you can enjoy peaceful walks among towering trees, rocky cliffs, and gentle streams.
For art lovers, Hot Springs hosts a variety of exciting events throughout the year, including Arts & The Park, a lively 10-day festival packed with exhibitions, live performances, and fun, interactive workshops. While today Hot Springs is known as a friendly and welcoming tourist destination, its history is rich with stories of gangsters like Al Capone and Lucky Luciano, who once visited the city. Dive into this intriguing past at the Gangster Museum of America, which offers guided tours and a fascinating gallery to help you learn more about the city's colorful history.
Mountain View is proudly known as the "Folk Music Capital of the World," offering some of the best bluegrass music you'll find anywhere in the country. If you're not already familiar, bluegrass is a vibrant genre that blossomed in the Appalachian region during the mid-20th century, combining traditional country, jazz, and folk influences. Don’t miss the Mountain View Bluegrass Festival happening this November 7th to 9th, a perfect chance to experience this lively music scene.
Just a short half-hour drive from the city, you’ll find the breathtaking Blanchard Springs Cavern, where you can explore stunning crystalline geological formations along accessible paved paths. Finish your adventure at the Ozark Folk Center State Park, open from mid-April to October, where you can watch talented artisans creating local crafts, music, and other rich cultural traditions that truly bring the area to life.
Bentonville is a lively town and the county seat of Benton County. It’s especially loved by history enthusiasts, thanks to its many museums that tell fascinating stories from the past. One standout is the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which is free to visit and features impressive collections spanning five centuries, from early American art to modern creations. You might also enjoy the Walmart Museum Heritage Lab, where you can learn about the early days of the company that has grown into one of the world's largest corporations, right here in Arkansas. Just a short drive away is the Slaughter Pen Trail, a favorite among cyclists for its exciting paths that challenge your skills and help you get active. Bentonville also offers charming boutique shops and lively farmers markets, with plenty of stores to explore and enjoy.
Heber Springs is a charming and historic town, founded all the way back in 1881. Visitors can dive into the area's rich history by exploring the Ruland Junction Train Museum and the Cleburne County Historical Society. Just nearby, the Sugar Loaf Mountain Nature Trail offers breathtaking 360-degree views of beautiful landscapes, perfect for watching local birds and wildlife. For lovers of nature, Heber Springs is right next to Greers Ferry Lake, a massive body of water covering over 40,000 acres. It's well-known for its impressive fish, with some of the largest walleye and bass ever caught, including a walleye weighing 22 pounds! Besides fishing, the lake invites visitors to swim or even jump off cliffs into the refreshing waters—it's all safe and fun.
Van Buren holds a special place in history during the Gold Rush, as travelers gathered wagons, horses, and other vital supplies to journey westward. The town's rich heritage is beautifully preserved, especially in the Van Buren Historic District, which boasts many charming landmarks. Highlights include the 1842 Crawford County Courthouse and the 1908 Hebe Fountain, both telling fascinating stories of the past that delight visitors. Plus, Van Buren is a wonderful gateway to Lake Fort Smith State Park, where you can enjoy a variety of water activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. In the evenings, the town becomes a favorite spot for stargazers — thanks to its remote setting and low light pollution, it's perfect for gazing at stars and planets. Remember to bring your telescopes and enjoy the breathtaking night sky!
Smithsonian Magazine named Siloam Springs one of the top small towns in America in 2012. This recognition comes from the charming mix of attractions that draw visitors from all over the country. Historically, the area was inhabited by Native Americans before European settlers arrived in the 1830s, and it quickly grew into a vibrant tourist destination. You can discover the town's rich history through engaging guided walking tours and fascinating exhibits like the "Industries of Siloam Springs' and the "Sager Family and Pioneer Life" displays. These exhibits highlight different facets of the town, from historic businesses to everyday life in the 1800s.
Today, Siloam Springs continues to welcome tourists with a variety of enjoyable attractions. Visitors can explore the City of Siloam Springs Kayak Park, have fun at The Family Aquatic Center, or relax at the 165-acre City Lake Park by a picturesque lake. This outdoor oasis offers excellent fishing and paddling opportunities, along with scenic trails perfect for running and biking.
In conclusion, Arkansas offers endless pretty towns where tourists can get fresh outdoor air this summer and enjoy outdoor fun. Whether you're inclined to attend music festivals, countless museums, or outdoor activities like fishing and hiking, these Natural State towns are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Each town's unique charm, historical significance, and natural beauty ensure that visitors of all interests will find something to love and remember. So, pack your bags and explore Arkansas's diverse landscapes and vibrant communities.
This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
Learn more about becoming a franchise owner.
Each ameriCARE location is an independently owned and operated franchise.
The franchisor, ameriCARE, does not control or manage the day-to-day business operations of any ameriCARE franchised agency.
