Another summer will end this month, which ultimately means we are facing another Nebraska winter very soon. We are all generally affected (and often inconvenienced) by inclement weather in Lincoln, but the winter months can be especially challenging for seniors. The time for making plans and decisions, whether short term for thriving in the midst of another winter or long term arrangements to ensure everything is in place, has come for many seniors and their loved ones. As the ancient Chinese proverb goes, “The best time to build a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”
With the fall season approaching, seniors and their families begin to consider a move to a senior living community,” says Roxann Rogers-Meyer of The Landing at Williamsburg Village, an Immanuel Community. “Memories of the past winter surface and families may initiate conversations about senior housing choices and services. Maybe the family is concerned about their loved one shoveling snow and walking or driving on ice-covered surfaces. Maybe the senior is worried about being home-bound because of bad weather. The Landing at Williamsburg Village, an Immanuel community, is transforming the way most people view senior living. We invite seniors and their families to visit the community for a personal visit.
The Landing exemplifies a holistic approach to wellness that addresses the Body, Mind and Spirit. Seniors can significantly improve the quality of their life in later years by staying active and fully engaged in life. We encourage residents to participate in a tailored exercise program or take an aquatics class in our warm-water pool or sign up for a class at our computer lab. The Landing features an art gallery that shares the work of area artists with new exhibits every three months.
Our tag line, uniquely your own, invites residents to share their passions, their past, their professional experience and their talents with the rest of The Landing community. Our residents and staff produce a Melodrama each year and this production allows their unique talents to shine. The Landing embraces all the dimensions of wellness as we transform the way people view senior living.”
Deb Maguire of High Plains Memory Care continues, “It’s hard to believe that summer is coming to an end. School is back in session, the days will soon be getting shorter, and the weather will be changing. This gets us to start thinking about mom or dad who still lives in their own home, maybe alone, and can they make it all winter in that big house? Depression is more common in the winter months, and bad weather can mean social isolation for many seniors. Make efforts to spend time with family, friends and neighbors, and when weather makes visiting difficult, pick up the phone for a chat.
It is so important that when you’re loved one can no longer stay safely at home alone that you consider options for a living environment where their needs can be met. In doing this there is a lot to consider…look at the senior’s health status. Does the senior require more care than can be given in the home? Evaluate the senior’s use of medication. Does he or she remember to take it? Take into consideration a senior’s dietary needs. Is he or she eating appropriately, and is he or she able to manage special dietary requirements? Examine the senior’s daily activities. Can the senior manage activities such as bathing, dressing, using the toilet and transferring in and out of the bed or chairs? Check out the senior’s mobility. Can he or she walk, with or without assistance? Is the senior at risk for falls? These are just a few things to consider. Where can you find the answers? First start with an assessment…this can be in your loved ones home by a care professional and is often done at no charge. If they can no longer stay at home safely alone then the decision comes on whether to place them in a care facility where all their needs can be met or hire in-home care to come in and assist with those needs. Often times the in home option is very costly and can be even scary to your loved one as several different people will be coming in and out at different times. A facility that can meet all their needs, even as those needs change, is often cheaper and can be very beneficial to their stability with their health needs. When seeking out a facility make sure you are asking the right questions like should my loved ones needs change can you handle that here, what would happen to make you discharge my loved one, and can you care for my loved one through end of life?
It is very important to make sure the care community you choose for your loved one not only can meet their physical needs but even more important is meeting the social needs as well. Why is socialization so important? Everything/every activity a person does throughout the day should have meaning or purpose and enhance the quality of the person’s life. Activity refers to everything the resident does through the day, planned, or spontaneous, and includes personal care, all interaction and conversation with others, time alone, as well as rest and sleep. While “activities” are seen in many communities as something extra, or an add-on to the regular routine of a resident’s day, here at High Plains our Meaningful Moments program is a “meaningful activity” as part of the daily routine. We know that past routines provide comfort and we bring that comfort into your loved ones day every day. Even in the winter we can enjoy meaningful activities like indoor gardening, crafts, golf, bowling, painting, and the list can go on and on. Getting to know the personal history of each resident in your community and utilizing that knowledge into your meaningful moment’s program can not only stimulate engagement but get residents doing new things that they didn’t know they liked.
Call Deb at (402) 483-0250 for a tour any time and find out how we make “Meaningful Moments” every day.”
When thinking about and planning for the future, even if there is no real sense of urgency, a good rule of thumb is the sooner the better. “As a ‘tail end’ baby boomer, I’ve learned and strongly believe that looking into the area of senior living and care needs to start early, before one even needs any help if possible,” says Rhonda Saunders of Hospice Community Care. “At any age, most of us don’t like to think about tomorrow in terms of getting older and what that may look like. God willing we will live to be a ripe old age, in good health and as independently as possible. But the reality is…a percentage of us won’t maintain our good health, sound mind and maybe even financial security as we enter into our golden years.
When I first entered into the arena of senior care, I’d already had my eyes opened to the challenges that seniors face as a caregiver for my parents–housing, medical, transportation, activities of daily living, support systems, etc. It’s often daunting for someone to navigate each of these areas on a daily basis when we’re healthy, but add in poor health and/or caregiver stress as we assist someone we love and it can quickly become overwhelming.
No matter your age, now is the time. Whether you’re living the good life of retirement or it’s a decade or more away, know your options and make your wishes be heard. The face of aging in America has changed and there are more options now than ever before. So let’s get started!
The first step may be the hardest. Objectively asking yourself a few questions first will definitely help. This includes: Where and how do I see myself as I age? What type of assistance is available if I can no longer care for myself or need a little help? If I want to stay in my home, what are my options for home care and bottom line, how much does this all cost?
After a bit of chatting with yourself, the next step it to start your research. Learn about, tour and evaluate your options for independent living, assisted living and yes, even skilled care. And don’t forget to include options for those with dementia. Statistics tell us that one in three women in their 60’s will develop dementia and by age 85, 50% of all adults may be inflicted with this disease. For more information on this check out the Alzheimer’s Association website www.alz.org and for more help with knowing what to look for and ask, contact Aging Partners at (402) 441-7070. Both organizations have a plethora of resource information available. Be sure to continue to educate yourself in areas of senior care and resources by attending senior health fairs and educational sessions that often offered for free in our community.
The next step may be a difficult one–talking to your family. Try to look at it as a gift. By you introducing this subject and expressing your wishes it helps to eliminate the hardship of them having to someday address it with you. Your child never wants to have to become your parent, but unfortunately, life sometimes works out that way. This is your life and you’re in control, so open that door and bring it out in the open while everyone involved is healthy and not in crisis mode. Let them know what you’re thinking and then put it in writing. Establish a Power of Attorney(s) for medical and financial, make a living will and draw up or update your will and estate plans.
So bottom line: plan ahead, educate yourself, talk to your family, and make sure to visit your financial planner and attorney. And sleep well at night knowing you have made informed decisions regarding your care.”
Angie Varela of Savannah Pines also emphasizes the importance of seniors being proactive instead of reactive. “Seniors who make the decision early to be in an environment meeting their needs for safety, diet, exercise, social connections, etc., are allowing themselves to establish a healthy foundation for years to come. Life in Savannah Pines eliminates time spent on yard work, snow removal, and home maintenance, risk of injuries is minimized. Having convenient access to fresh, healthy, well-balanced meals prepared by a professional team of chefs ensures appropriate nutrition to maintain a healthy lifestyle. A wide variety of choices to engage in activities they enjoy is beneficial for physical and mental health as well. During the winter months, driving and mobility is easy, as our community offers onsite social interaction, physical activity, and we even have a van for transportation needs.
Feeling a sense of community has a positive affect for all ages. A 2010 online article from the Elderly Care Café stated, ‘Experts say that seniors who enjoy an active social life often extend their lives by years. There are an abundance of benefits for socializing other than life extension; stress reduction, a feeling of importance, and a feeling of high self-esteem are just a few of the benefits.’ At Savannah Pines, there’s always something going on. Our full-time Lifestyle Director collaborates with residents to develop a full schedule of events and activities tailored to their interests. From fitness and art activities to live entertainment and day trips in the comfortable, complimentary van provided by Savannah Pines, there is something for everyone.
With colder temperatures and winter just around the corner, there will be plenty of opportunities to continue to stay active and socializing in the community, including Husker football tailgate and watch parties in our 150 seat state-of-the-art theatre, card games, church services, fitness classes, and weekly happy hour on Friday afternoons are among the most popular.
It is a privilege to share in the lives of the families who choose to call Savannah Pines home. We welcome the opportunity to provide the ‘grand tour’ to families and anyone who is interested in learning more about retirement living.”
The needs of each senior are unique; two people that are the same age may need completely different services and accommodations, which is why there is a spectrum of care options available to choose from in Lincoln. Kim Weis, Admissions Coordinator at Southlake Village, further explains, “As an individual’s care needs change one must determine if care is needed and at what level of assistance. Needs can include medical assistance; help with day-to-day tasks such as cooking, cleaning, hygiene, bathroom needs and social pursuits. The Southlake Village Rehabilitation and Care Center team helps those individuals that are in need of care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our professional staff can assist with activities of daily living, physical, social and medical needs.
Gauging the level of care needed can often times be difficult with all the choices available from Home Health, to Assisted Living, to Skilled Care. If you are having difficulty determining what level is appropriate there are many organizations able to help you navigate the health care system. The Southlake Village admissions team would be honored to help you determine the senior living community options. Feel free to call the Southlake Village team at (402) 327-6300.
During the winter months many older adults find staying in their own home challenging. This can be due to upkeep concerns with ice and snow, home safety, household tasks and social isolation. Social isolation is definitely an issue for seniors, especially during the winter months. At Southlake Village we have fun, educational and spiritual activities year round. Please take a look at our website (www.southlakevillagerehab.com) and stop out for one of our world class musical events or educational series. Another great way to stay active is to volunteer. We are always looking for volunteers; if you have a talent for crafts, games, reading or just listening we would love your help in enriching the lives of those we serve.”
Mobility is indeed among the major concerns for seniors—especially in the winter months. Laurie McAdams, Family Service Representative at Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home, says, “I have worked with seniors for almost 35 years and the common thread of concern for the winter months is transportation. Many older adults do not like to drive when there has been ice or snow. And in fact, if the Meteorologists even predict bad weather they are likely to say ‘no’ to social opportunities. If they know this is a concern, families can either offer to provide transportation when inclement weather is possible or give the gift of travel, i.e. cab coupons or credit to any one of the local transportation providers.
Along the same lines, many people feel very isolated after the loss of a loved one, particularly a spouse. They find it easier to turn down invitations and often friends say, ‘Call me if you need anything.’ My best advice to those well-meaning friends is not to wait for that grieving person to call. Be proactive and invite them to social functions, offering to pick them up on the way. The grieving person will be much more likely to attend.
There are many grief support groups in Lincoln. We provide ‘Aftercare’ with the families we serve and list several organizations which offer this support. We would be happy to pass along the phone numbers and contacts if an individual would call us. I feel like grief support is very, very important and helpful. Having been the coordinator of Widowed Persons Service for 16 years I felt like I was qualified to take care of myself after the death of several loved ones. Nevertheless, I attended an eight week support group and it helped me immensely.
I think that it is very important to at least have thought about the future and what it might hold. If I am capable, would senior housing or just a condominium which takes care of things like lawn care and snow removal be better for me? And, seniors should have the conversation with their families about these wishes. If Mom has a stroke and hasn’t given any instruction about future care, she may end up in the very place she adamantly didn’t want to go to.
Of course, in the funeral industry we know that planning ahead for what happens when you die is of utmost importance. In this day and age, grandkids often don’t even know their grandmother’s maiden name, something that is required for a death certificate. Make sure your family knows what funeral home you would like to use, and at least tell them what your wishes are. My father died very suddenly and consequently we were required to plan an “event” in 3 short days. After that chaotic experience, my Mother went to the funeral home and planned, paid for her casket and service, and even chose the songs she wanted. When my sisters came back to Lincoln for her service and we sat in front of the funeral director he basically told us that all we needed to decide on was what day we wanted the service and what we wanted to serve for the luncheon. It was the last, and greatest, gift that she ever gave us.
My best advice to anyone is to have a plan. A plan for your future, a plan if your spouse dies, a plan if you are hurt and need someone to help you with your care. Lincoln is so fortunate to have the resources available for seniors and their families. All you have to do is ask!”
Roper & Sons Grief Counselor, Jennifer Clark, also emphasizes the importance of grief support for seniors. “At Roper and Sons, we provide a grief support group that meets once a week, year round. It is different from other grief support groups in the fact that we do not follow a curriculum. Several people that have attended curriculum based groups, felt that they needed more. This is where we come in. We focus on grief regularly, but we focus on so more that someone who lost a loved one is going through. There are a lot of “first time” situations that come up. Things such as doing the taxes, the water heater breaking down, snow removal or lawn care. We deal with these things as a group. We support each other in the good and bad days. We meet on Sundays afternoons for a reason. Sundays have been found to be the most lonely of days when grieving. Normally Sundays are a type of family day; and thus when your loved one is gone, they become hard days to handle. Having a group of people who understand what you are going through can be beneficial.
As the leader of the group, I find that winter can be a terrible time for people that are grieving. It is gloomy, the sun sets so early and a lot of the time the roads are bad. Having a support group to attend once a week can be helpful. Being able to sit with a cup of coffee and vent about your week, cry with each other, or discuss situations that are arising can mean so much for someone who otherwise may be isolated. I always suggest to people that they put at least one light in their house on a timer. This way, when they come home after work or running errands in the late afternoon, they are not coming home to a dark house. Coming home to an empty house is hard enough; no one needs it to be dark also!”
Seniors have years upon years of special memories, and tapping into those can be very therapeutic. Furthermore, daily fulfillment is one of the keys to overall wellbeing for seniors. Eric Haider, CEO of the Waterford Communities, emphasizes the importance of focusing on the individual and sharing in their past and present life experiences:
“The Waterford at College View in Lincoln, Nebraska provides a unique and state-of-the-art continuum of services for individuals with varying needs of support in health, everyday living, and memory care. Waterford residents are recognized as truly special people with long and successful histories of making our world a better place. Within the Waterford, individual stories abound–from the heart of a teacher; from the nurturing words of a pastor; from a decorated veteran of World War II; from a retired physician who for years has restored health to the sick and dying; from a farmer who has provided our world with riches from our blessed earth.
Residents in the Waterford Communities are recognized as honored guests. They are our forebears–to be cherished, respected, and appreciated. They have worked a lifetime to ensure a world that is safe and secure for those who follow. They have safeguarded our personal freedoms and to our esteemed guests, we owe a debt of gratitude. At the Waterford,
• we create an environment where there is physical and emotional safety;
• we ensure relationships that continue to nurture social and emotional well-being;
• we provide personal choices designed to maintain as much individual freedom as possible;
• we offer a continuum of medical support services; and
• we promise the best in individualized care.
Guidance is the word we believe best describes our interaction with our guests. We develop individualized plans that allow opportunities and choices to meet personal needs that relate to sleep time, meal and snack times, socialization and communication times, and other assisted and independent activities.
At the Waterford, we provide and support quality of living that brings life-affirming meaning and daily fulfillment. We have a philosophy of care focused on compassion. We believe human dignity is the cornerstone of our work. Our caring, compassionate staff is well-trained and strives to create a home-like setting with age-appropriate and meaningful activities for our guests. We provide activities that allow each individual to function at his or her most optimal level. We believe that we model skills and dispositions that focus on improved quality-of-life opportunities for each and every guest in our care.”
Researchers have long noted how social interaction affects mental and physical health. Going it alone is linked to depression, higher blood pressure and cognitive decline with age. Countering an isolated life with rewarding relationships does more than increase longevity. Personal companionship is shown to:
• Boost the immune system.
• Improve cardiovascular health.
• Release stress-reducing hormones.
• Enhance nutrition and digestion.
• Regulate the body’s blood sugar level.
• Lift self-esteem.
• Decrease the length of hospital stays.
A widespread Swedish study noted that people 75 and older who continue with meaningful connections to family and friends also exhibit reduced dementia risk. Overall, social support helps seniors take better care of themselves.
Harvard Women’s Health Watch in 2010 reported on a study that examined data from more than 309,000 people. The analysis found that those without satisfying family ties or social bonds with friends, neighbors or colleagues are 50 percent more likely to die prematurely. The mortality risk is comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, and greater than obesity and physical inactivity.
“Sharing your ups and downs with trusted others lightens the load of daily living,” says Anne Deterding, owner of Right at Home in Lincoln, NE. “We find this especially true with the older adults we serve. Many seniors struggle with the loss of a spouse, decreased mobility and a diminished outlook for the future. I’m always encouraged to see how extending a kindness, a listening ear and caring friendship helps older loved ones stay happier and healthier.”
As scientists continue to investigate the health benefits for seniors who engage with others, the positive news is that cultivating your companionship circle is possible at any age. Consider these relationship-building tips:
• Foster relationships that bring joy. Life is too short to surround yourself with negative, grumpy people. Bond more with people who truly make you smile.
• Mentor someone. Thousands of people from young kids to senior citizens could benefit from coaching in reading and math to life skills and decision making.
• Volunteer. Volunteers are needed for animal shelters and hospitals to libraries and schools.
• Join group activities. Community or local recreation centers offer dozens of activities to enjoy with others from museum and zoo tours to park picnics and sporting events.
• Invite others for coffee or a meal. Aim for a once-a-week gathering for coffee or a meal. Meet out, dine in or make a simple meal together.
• Develop a solid rapport with grandchildren and younger adults. Learn about each other’s interests and enjoy fun activities together. Ask each other for help or advice (i.e., help with cooking, computers, falling in love, etc.)
• Share family histories and photo albums. Take time to recall classic family adventures. Put together a family photo album and make copies for everyone in the family.
• Include friends and family in everyday routines. Need to run errands? Invite along a companion. Routinely walk? Grab a partner. Common tasks and exercise sessions are typically more fun when shared with others.
• Fall in love with a pet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Journal of Geriatrics report that pet companionship improves the physical health and mental well-being of older adults, even reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels and doctor visits.
For those who cannot be present as a caregiver or regular companion to elderly loved ones, Deterding recommends contacting Right at Home to provide companionship services, such as socialization, cognitive stimulation, playing games and letter writing.
Experts advise that having hundreds of Facebook and email friends does not ensure the same health benefits as engaging with others in regular, face-to-face contact. While it is fun to message and post away online, remember that a smile, a hug, a couple of laughs and sage advice for another human – in person – may well clear your arteries, protect your memory and lengthen your longevity. So as you age, continue to play well with others because they are true lifesavers.
For more information, contact Right at Home of Lincoln at www.lincoln.rightathome.net, or 402-488-4421 or email at caregiver@caringrah.com.
AlarmLink USA provides security and emergency systems that are wonderful for seniors who are able to continue living in their own homes. The AlarmLink Medical Alert is especially popular among seniors, and truly is a life saver. RJ Lipert, owner of AlarmLink USA, explains, “We have an array of products and services that can be tailored to fit the needs and lifestyles of seniors. Our most popular of those is the Personal Emergency Reporting System, which is a supervised wireless emergency reporting product. The transmitter is convertible, meaning that we can install it in a wristband or a pendant in addition to options for table-top or wall-mount consoles. This system offers 24/7 emergency monitoring from the staff at AlarmLink USA, 2-way voice capabilities, smoke detection, and it’s also waterproof. In fact, we recently received this testimonial from one of our clients:
“My Mother fell about 1:15 am and we received a call from the response center telling us she had fallen and they sent lift assist. The response center caller was polite, professional and calm as my first reaction was panic–Mom is hurt. She said Mom had told her she was not hurt, just could not get up. She asked me to confirm location of key to gain access to the home and I did so. I am so happy we have AlarmLink for my Mom and Dad. We know if they do fall they can just push a button, we will be contacted and help will be on the way to their home. This is real peace of mind for their families. Thank you so much!” – Sharon H.
Because the lives and assets of our clients are at stake, we are committed to the flawless execution of our systems. We would be happy to provide more information on the various options for seniors and a free estimate on any of these products. At AlarmLink USA, we take great pride in knowing that we play a role in keeping seniors safe and secure in their home, wherever that may be.”
Just as with those who are experiencing physical ailments, such as mobility issues or hearing loss, the long, cold days of winter are especially isolating for seniors. Their number one concern is slipping on ice, so they stay indoors. If family members are nearby, they can drive their loved one to appointments; and get them out as often as they can. “We see a lot of adult children bringing their parents to their appointment”, says Leslie Frank MS, CCC-A, owner and audiologist of Nebraska Hearing Center. “It is fun to meet our client’s families”.
If family isn’t nearby, take a look at the forecast. If the roads and sidewalks look like they will be clear, call and make an appointment. “If the weather turns bad, we understand if the client cancels their appointment. We would much rather have them safe at home”, Leslie says. “But if they choose to see us, our front door is curbside. This makes it is easy for us to assist our clients get to and from the car”.
Be prepared for winter by making sure you have enough batteries on hand for your hearing aids. “If you are running low on batteries and can’t get out, give us a call. We will gladly put some in the mail for you,” says Leslie.
Since winter can be so isolating, the social opportunities are really important. But if you can’t hear well, it is just easier to stay home. “People with hearing loss slowly begin to isolate themselves because it is easier”, Leslie says. “They may not even realize they are doing it, or that it’s because they have a hearing loss”. Hearing loss is a gradual process, and there are many different ways that people adapt to these changes that may not be apparent to their loved ones. “Hearing loss can really be isolating any time of the year, having your hearing checked annually is just as important as going to the eye doctor or the medical doctor. Since the test is free – why not?”
Technology is also really changing the world of hearing. Nebraska Hearing Center offers new wireless technology combined with a small remote. It is designed to improve hearing when using cell phones; or when watching TV or listening to music. The technology really improves the clarity when in meetings, noisy places, or while at church. “Our clients who have recently purchased these new aids, really love them,” says Leslie. “They are amazed with the difference between the new ones and their old ones. We also have a new tinnitus device, and clients who have had ringing in their ears for years tell us they no longer hear it.”
Finally, she offers some common signs of hearing loss to watch for when visiting senior relatives:
• Your loved one can hear loud enough, but can’t understand conversations.
• They overuse the word “what”.
• The TV is too loud for others.
• They have trouble understanding a conversation in a noisy environment, such as a restaurant.
• They have ringing in their ears.
At any age it is important to live a balanced life. “As we age it is especially valuable to be aware of the aspects that keep us happy, healthy and safe,” says Kayla Schaf of The Legacy Retirement Communities. According to the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), the seven dimensions of wellness is a concept that encompasses active aging and the different dimensions of overall wellness. These dimensions include physical, intellectual, environmental, emotional, social, spiritual and vocational. Schaf explains, “Aging within these dimensions in mind can help seniors stay involved, alert and hopefully enjoying a productive life. The seven dimensions of wellness can be a great measuring tool for seniors and families when evaluating or considering the future.”
“There are many areas that seniors struggle to maintain as they age,” adds Kathy Nannen, Director of Arbors Memory Care. “One of the most common is staying physically active and mentally alert. It is important for seniors to stay physically active. Regular exercise keeps our muscles strong and protects our bones to aide in prevention of weakness, falls and injury. Exercise can improve mood and mental alertness. Proper nutrition and hydration are also very important to maintain a healthy heart and mind.”
Jocelyn Fitzgerald of Legacy Terrace continues, “The concept of active aging is summed up in the phrase ‘engaged in life.’ Individuals can participate in life as fully as possible. As seniors experience health changes, these changes often can influence many aspects of their life including maintaining a social life. We encourage seniors to stay active and focus on the activities that they are still able to enjoy and make those activities a part of their routine. While the winter months can be challenging, living in a community setting can be a major social benefit. From eating with friends, learning a new hobby like arm knitting (something new our residents have learned), to sharing a glass of wine at happy hour–people around you can make all the difference.
We do know that seniors who socialize regularly are less likely to become depressed from loneliness and are better equipped to find resources when they need help. A thriving social life can provide your loved one with friendships, accountability, and the support needed to avoid problems like loneliness, mental health issues, and a wide range of health concerns.
We are finding that our residents are staying connected and social through many mediums, including the use of technology. As one example, one of our residents was recently able to attend his granddaughter’s wedding across the country via Facetime! It was an incredible day for him! With a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone, the chances to engage with others are virtually limitless. According to AARP, for the first time, more than half of all older adults are online. If you are not a computer savvy senior, there are classes and resources in our community that can get you started. In the words of C.S. Lewis: ‘You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.’”
Legacy Retirement Communities is committed to serving the Lincoln Community. To learn more about senior related topics check out their “Legacy of Learning” educational seminars at www.legacy-of-learning.com.
As you can see, there are plenty of wonderful resources in our community for seniors and their loved ones. Connecting people with resources is one of the first, and largely most important, steps in planning for the future. Care Consultants for the Aging provides a Home Care Registry and ElderCare Resource Handbook that are both helpful tools which do just that!
*The Home Care Registry (www.careconsultants.com/our-homecare.html) will help you find qualified caregivers to fit your home care needs.
*The ElderCare Resource Handbook (www.careconsultants.com/resource-handbook.html) provides a complete listing of companies that provide services to seniors in the Lincoln, Omaha and Des Moines metro areas.
You can access these resources online via the websites listed, or you may utilize the direct links on the Care Consultants website, www.careconsultants.com. If you would like to purchase your own copy of the ElderCare Resource Handbook, you may do so for $7 per book at any of the three offices. The Lincoln office is located at 1530 S. 70th Street, Suite 202, Lincoln, NE 68506. If you would prefer to have one mailed to you, the cost is $10 per book. You may send them a check or order online with a credit card via the website.
Everyone is different and people need various options while navigating their healthcare journey. Different factors determine when and what kind of help is needed. Furthermore, Care Consultants understands that it is hard to ask for help. By understanding the services, resources and options which are available locally, it is the hope of Care Consultants that seniors and their families will be able to make informed decisions which have the potential to enhance their quality of life and independence.
So as we approach the winter months, the weather will likely present some obstacles. However, with some advanced planning and the help of family, friends, and resources in the community there is plenty of support out there to keep seniors healthy and to ensure that their lives are as full and enjoyable as ever.