Greetings,In our last bi-monthly newsletter, I mentioned we had nominated one of our caregivers Jane, as the Caregiver of the Year for Visiting Angels nationwide. We were notified at the end of January, she was selected to move onto Round 2 of nominations! This round, we must submit video testimonials about Jane from the client, family members, office staff, and our owner Karen. By the time you read this, we will have submitted the video testimonials and will hear back by March 21st if Jane is a semi-finalist for this prestigious award. The winner of this years Caregiver of the Year award will be announced at the Visiting Angels 26th Annual Conference being held in June and will receive $5,000. There are many team members deserving of consideration for Caregiver of the Year, yet Janes exceptional qualities really stand out. Id like to share an excerpt from the written nominations highlighting Janes contribution.Jane has worked with our team for almost three years. She is dedicated to her work and committed to her clients. She is always on time and never calls out, no matter the weather conditions. The dignity of those in her care is a top priority for Jane while maintaining a positive attitude. Shes willing to go-with-the-flow in any circumstance. For example, when her client resists wearing oxygen and doesnt remember why they need to wear it, Jane knows how to navigate the situation with grace and patience. On the other hand, she holds her ground with difficult clients, and even though it may be uncomfortable, she handles it with respect and kindness.Nominating a caregiver of the year is not just a process, its an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary dedication and compassion of someone whose role is to serve others. Being a part of this journey of recognition has been rewarding because it highlights the invaluable contributions of caregivers nationwide and the importance of acknowledging their efforts. Its been a reminder of the power of appreciation and the significance of recognizing individuals who demonstrate excellence in their work. Im pleased to be a part of a nationally known and locally owned company, like Visiting Angels, who understands the importance and joy of recognizing others. In the end, nominating a caregiver is about acknowledging the countless acts of kindness and the immeasurable impact caregivers have on the lives of others. Whether or not Jane wins nationwide, she is our Visiting Angels of Medford, MA Caregiver of the Year 2023, and that is something to celebrate! I look forward to giving you another update regarding the award in May. All for now,Abby

Safeguarding Seniors: Mitigating Fall Risks in the Home At Senior Helpers, the safety and well-being of our seniors are of utmost importance, and fall-related injuries are a significant concern. However, many of these accidents can be prevented with simple precautions within the home. Fall prevention not only preserves physical well-being but also contributes to the overall quality of life. Seniors often face a higher risk of falling due to factors like reduced mobility, balance issues, and diminishing muscle strength. To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to create a safer environment within their homes. Here are some key steps to consider:  Clear Pathways: Cluttered spaces can lead to tripping hazards. Ensure that walkways are unobstructed, and remove loose rugs or use non-slip mats to secure them. Proper Lighting: Inadequate lighting can make it difficult for seniors to navigate their homes. Install bright, energy-efficient LED lights and nightlights to illuminate hallways and key areas. Bathroom Safety: Install grab bars in the bathroom and a non-slip mat in the shower or bath. Consider a raised toilet seat for added ease. Medication Management: Many seniors take multiple medications, some of which may cause dizziness. Keep a record of their medications, their side effects, and consult with a healthcare provider if necessary. Exercise and Balance Training: Regular physical activity can improve strength and balance, reducing the risk of falls. Encourage simple exercises or consider programs designed to enhance balance. Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular medical check-ups to monitor and manage health conditions that could affect mobility. Emergency Response Plan: Ensure that seniors have access to a phone, emergency numbers, and an alert system in case of a fall or other health emergencies.  Senior Helpers uses a proprietary technology assessment tool called LIFE Profile which has been proven to reduce the risk of hospitalization by keeping seniors safe in their home environment. With LIFE Profile, we take a comprehensive and in depth look at 144 safety risks in and around the home, and it creates a customized plan for how a seniors home can be made safer.  For more information on how we can help seniors stay safe and thrive in their homes, please visit seniorhelpers.com/ks/overland-park.   Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jeff Rigler. Jeff is the owner of Senior Helpers Overland Park and may be reached at 913-851-4800 or by email at jrigler@seniorhelpers.com. 

As we age, our living environment plays a crucial role in maintaining independence, safety, and overall well-being. By making thoughtful design modifications, we can create an age-friendly home that caters to the unique needs and challenges of seniors. In this blog post, we will explore various design considerations and practical tips that can transform a house, senior living, or assisted living apartment into a safe and comfortable haven for seniors, enabling them to live independently and enhance their quality of life.Prioritize Safety and Accessibility - Safety should be the top priority when designing an age-friendly home. Consider incorporating the following modifications:Install grab bars in bathrooms and near stairs to provide stability and support.Ensure proper lighting throughout, including hallways, stairways, and entrance areas.Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs or cluttered walkways.Install non-slip flooring, especially in moisture-prone areas, like bathrooms and kitchens.Consider installing lever-style door handles that are easier to grasp than traditional door knobs.Adjust the height of countertops and cabinets to avoid excessive bending or stretching.Enhance Mobility and Ease of Navigation - Seniors may face mobility challenges, so it is essential to create a living environment that allows for easy movement and navigation:Ensure that hallways and doorways are wide enough to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs.Install ramps or lifts for entryways with stairs to ensure accessibility.Arrange furniture to create clear pathways and minimize obstacles.Use contrasting colors for walls, floors, and furniture to aid depth perception and reduce the risk of falls.Consider using non-glare surfaces and window treatments to minimize glare and improve visibility.Optimize Functionality and Convenience - Streamlining daily activities can significantly enhance the comfort and convenience of senior living:Consider installing a walk-in shower or a seated shower bench to facilitate bathing.Utilize adjustable-height countertops and pull-out drawers in the kitchen for easier access to cookware and supplies.Install a hand-held showerhead and grab bars in the bathroom for added convenience and safety.Ensure that light switches and electrical outlets are easily accessible and at a convenient height.Implement smart home technology, such as voice-activated assistants and automated lighting, to control various functions with ease.Comfort and Relaxation - Creating a comfortable and soothing environment is essential for emotional well-being:Select supportive and ergonomic furniture with features like lumbar support and high-density foam cushions. Automatic recliners and lift chairs are also available.Incorporate soft, non-reflective lighting to create a warm and relaxing atmosphere.Use window coverings that allow for natural light while maintaining privacy.Consider installing adjustable heating and cooling systems to ensure optimal comfort in all seasons.Designing an age-friendly home is a transformative process that empowers seniors to maintain independence, safety, and comfort within their own living space. You can prioritize safety, accessibility, mobility, functionality, and comfort, while still creating a warm hospitable environment. With careful planning and thoughtful adjustments, we can transform our homes into havens where seniors can thrive, enjoy their golden years, and embrace the joy of aging in a secure and comfortable environment. When the time comes to explore other senior living accommodations your Senior Care Authority advisor is just a phone call away.