Florida - Southwest

Collier & Lee

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Amanda Barton

Publisher's Note


Hello, My name is Amanda Barton and I am your local Publisher. I welcome your feedback and look forward to learning how I may assist you with your search.  Seniors Blue Book is Collier and Lee Counties' most comprehensive and reliable resource for Aging Well.  Click around to compare Senior Housing such as Retirement Communities, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing Communities.  You will also find Health at Home options like Home Health Care, Private Duty Home Care, Hospice and Senior Resources.  

Seniors Blue Book prides itself in being a one-stop shop to find local In-Person Educational Events, Activities, and Entertainment.  Check out our “Educate Yourself” tab to view Educational Articles, Videos, and Definitions. 

Whether you are looking for resources, looking to promote your business or just want to know what's happening around town, the Seniors Blue Book website is your go-to! Our healthcare system is difficult enough to navigate but throw in insurance and legal issues on top, and then manage it all in a crisis… no one should have to do it alone. Let me help you! Call 813-731-6069 or email me at abarton@seniorsbluebook today!

Thank you for using Seniors Blue Book,  Enjoy!

Florida - Southwest

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Apr 08, 2024 12:00 PM - 01:30 AM

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Event is FREE but RSVP is required. Call (239) 468-0050 to reserve your spot! Event is FREE but RSVP is required. Call (239) 468-0050 to reserve your spot! 

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Local Aging Options

Sandalwood Village

Independent Living 3511 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples, Florida, 34109

Picture overlooking a lake and golf course as you sip your breakfast coffee on your balcony. Sandalwood Village is where you can stay at home and still be on vacation. Whether you prefer sunbathing by the pool or socializing with friends, you'll find what you enjoy right outside your doorstep. You can choose to participate in any of the social activities that are planned for almost every day of the year, and you can use all the recreational and fitness amenities on your schedule. Sandalwood Village is what true Independence looks like for a senior.

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Aston Gardens At Pelican Marsh

Memory Care 4800 Aston Gardens Way, Naples, Florida, 34109

Welcome to Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh in Naples, one of Florida's most prestigious and exclusive cities. Our community is situated overlooking the Greg Norman-designed Tiburon Golf Course and interior lakes and fountains on the campus. Residents are within minutes of a host of cultural destinations, fine dining, name-brand shopping, and entertainment attractions. We offer an all-inclusive, affordable country club lifestyle with golf course vistas and five-star resort amenities, services and carefree living programs. There are a variety of floor plans from which to choose, and an elegantly appointed 20,375-square-foot Grande Clubhouse where you will find exciting programs, fine dining and good times.

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Gulf Coast Medical Center

Medical & Wellness 13681 Doctor's Way, Fort Myers, Florida, 33912

Our origins can be traced to the Fall of 1916 when a group of community leaders set aside 300 dollars, and donated lumber from the dismantled Court House, to build the first hospital in Fort Myers. That first hospital, Lee County Hospital, a two story, four room, 10 bed, wooden building was the beginning of community health care in our area. Today, Lee Health consists of four acute care hospitals: Lee Memorial Hospital, HealthPark Medical Center, Gulf Coast Medical Center and Cape Coral Hospital, and two specialty hospitals: Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida and The Rehabilitation Hospital. We encourage you to explore and find any information you need about Lee Health.

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Discovery Village At Naples

Assisted Living 8417 Sierra Meadows Blvd., Naples, Florida, 34113

We are the areas most advanced senior-living community. Discovery Village At Naples is nestled not far from the natural beauty of the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico. Unlike most assisted living communities in the region, Discovery Village At Naples uniquely blends the best senior-living features, amenities and wellness programs all into one state-of-the-art community. As a result, we have won gold in the 2016 National Association of Home Builders' "Best 55+ Assisted Living / Special Needs Community" category. Here in our award-winning community, you or your loved one will be well taken care of by a team of professionals offering you the ultimate in comfort, happiness and healthy living. Come discover an active, healthy way of life where you can choose from three lifestyle options to suit your needs: Supervised Independent Living, Assisted Living or Memory Care. At the heart of our brand new community is The Grande Clubhouse, a place where you will enjoy gourmet dining three times a day, socializing with new friends, participating in an array of events and activities, or maybe just taking in a movie in our plush theater. Then there's the wellness center; complete with indoor heated therapy pool, fitness center, available on-site therapies, and on-site Medical Director, plus many other features chock full of opportunities to get well and stay well. Discovery Village is managed and operated by Discovery Senior Living, a recognized leader for more than 25 years in the development, building, operation and management of affordable, award-winning senior-living communities. Our vision from the very beginning was to create beautiful communities where residents would find interesting and active friends engaged in a happy and healthy lifestyle. This vision has come to life through the dedication and loyalty of our team members. These professionals are committed to ensuring resident's experiences, satisfaction and enjoyment are unsurpassed each and every day. We are honored to serve our residents and are committed to maintaining the highest levels of personal care.

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Articles Written By Local Businesses

Recognizing and Overcoming Racial Disparities in Healthcare

National Minority Health Month is observed the entire month of April. Family Medicine Physician Chantel Jacobs explains why the color of your skin shouldnt affect the quality of your care.All Americans should have equal opportunities to pursue a healthy lifestyle, but research reveals thats not always the case. Millennium Physician Group Family Medicine Physician Chantel Jacobs explains why the color of your skin shouldnt affect the quality of your care. Certain health disparities, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, these are all prevalent within the Black community, she explains.  In fact, recent studies have shown that despite the improvements in the overall health of the country, racial and ethnic minorities experience a lower quality of healthcare and are less likely to receive routine medical care. And unfortunately, many of the reasons why are out of the control of the patient, admits Dr. Jacobs. So such as not having great access to healthcare or if they do have access to healthcare, its very limited.  Dr. Jacobs goes on to explain that in other cases, patients simply dont feel comfortable with their physician.  If they dont feel comfortable with their doctor, it makes it difficult for them to actually be honest with their doctor.  According to the Pew Research Center, 31% of Black adults say they would strongly prefer to see a Black healthcare provider for their routine medical care. All I want to do is give them the best treatment possible, says Dr. Jacobs. Help them understand how their body works, help them to get on good meal plans, so that they can help lose weight and help with their diabetes and high blood pressure and their high cholesterol. Many of them dont have access to even simple information as to, Okay, what diet should I have? So its my job to make sure that they have access to all that knowledge so that they stay as healthy as possible. 

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Why Your Estate Plan Must Include More than a Will

Last Will & TestamentA Last Will and Testament is an essential legal document that allows you to accomplish a number of important goals. You can name your beneficiaries and specify the assets you want them to receive; name a guardian for your minor children; and choose the person you want to settle your estate (known as the Executor).In short, a Will helps ensure your wishes are carried out after you pass away. However, it does not ensure that your wishes regarding your finances and medical care will be followed if you become incapacitated. For that you will need other essential documents.Power of Attorney for Health CareA Power of Attorney for Health Care, also known as a Health Care Proxy, allows you to name a person you trust to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are no longer able to make them on your own. Medical decisions covered by your Power of Attorney for Health Care can include choice of doctors and other health care providers; types of treatments; long-term care facilities; end-of-life decisions, such as the use of feeding tubes; and do not resuscitate orders.Power of Attorney for FinancesSimilar in concept to the Power of Attorney for Health Care, a Power of Attorney for Finances allows you to designate another person to make decisions about your finances, such as income, assets, and investments, when you can longer make them yourself.By choosing your decision-makers in advance through powers of attorney, you and your loved ones can avoid the expense, stress, delays, and potential for family infighting associated with a court-ordered guardianship proceeding.Living WillA Living Will allows you to express your wishes regarding what medical treatments you want, or do not want, in an end of life situation. A Living Will differs from a Power of Attorney for Health Care in that it details your specific wishes, whereas a Power of Attorney for Health Care allows someone else to make health care decisions for you. Another benefit of a Living Will is that it spares your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions about your care without knowing what you would have wanted.HIPAA ReleaseA HIPPA Release lets you choose who can receive information about your medical condition. Hospitals and medical providers can be prosecuted for violating the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) if they reveal your medical information to people not named in your HIPPA Release.To ensure your wishes are carried out while you are alive and after you pass away, your estate plan should include all of the legal documents mentioned above.Of course, estate planning can help you accomplish many other goals as well. For example, with a Revocable Living Trust your estate wont have to go through probate. This will expedite the distribution of estate assets to loved ones and keep your financial information private. A Revocable Living Trust also allows you to stipulate when and under what conditions your heirs will receive their assets, which is useful if you think your children are not yet mature enough to handle an inheritance. Other tools, such as an Irrevocable Trust, can protect your assets against threats like long-term care costs, divorce, creditors, lawsuits, and more.We invite you to contact us at your earliest convenience to discuss your unique planning needs and goals.Contact an Experienced Florida Estate Planning AttorneyIf you have additional questions or concerns regarding your unique planning needs and goals, contact Safe Harbor Law Firm by calling (239) 317-3116 to schedule an appointment.Tags: HIPAA Release, Living Will, Power Of Attorney

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Training Guide for Caregivers/Family Members

Anxiety & Restlessness An inability to relax due to worry, or fear, about everyday situations. Experiencing anxiety & restlessness is common and treatable. However, if left unmanaged - these can interfere with you & your loved ones quality of life and create an unsafe situation. Two of the most common origins of anxiety & restlessness are: pain and trouble breathing. If you or your loved one is experiencing any symptoms of anxiety, it is important that you report this as soon as possible. Signs & Symptoms may include: Fatigue, or insomnia Trouble focusing Agitation Sadness or depression Increased heart rate, breathing, & sweating Nausea and/or vomiting Unpleasant sensations/cramps in extremities (arms & legs) What can be done to manage anxiety & restlessness? Always try calming relaxation techniques first: 1.Deep breathing, or the pursed lip exercise, 2.Listen to soothing music, or 3.Watch the Avow.tv Safe Place Guided Imagery video Express thoughts & feelings with an Avow Hospice Social Worker and/or Chaplain In combination with holistic treatments, an Avow Hospice nurse, or medical provider, is always available to discuss with you medication options, potential side effects, and frequency of when to give prescribed treatments. What should be reported to your Avow hospice team? Past history of anxiety and/or depression If your symptoms worsen or do not respond to your current interventions.Common Side Effects of Pain Medication Patients may receive help with pain, trouble breathing, or anxiety by their medical provider prescribing opioid (oh-pee-oyd) pain medications. These strong drugs help relieve discomfort and should always be taken as prescribed to avoid complications.  Tell your Avow team if the patient is experiencing these common and manageable side effects: Constipation: Pain medications can allow too much water to be absorbed, which can lead to hard or infrequent stools. Avow can prescribe medication (stool softener or laxative) to help manage constipation. Tell your Avow team if the patient has not had a bowel movement for three (3) days. Sleepiness: Feeling drowsy or sleepy only lasts a few days when starting, or increasing, a pain medication dose. This should go away as the body adjusts. Opioids are used to provide comfort, so this is normal. Patient caregivers: If you feel the patient is in their final weeks or days, tell the Avow team as soon as possible. Dizziness: When starting, or increasing, a pain medication dose, the patient may experience dizziness for the first couple of days. Dizziness typically decreases within that time. Be careful when changing positions (sitting to standing.) The patient may need assistance to prevent falls. Tell your Avow team about dizziness that does not go away after the first couple of days or if you or the patient has a fall. Ineffectiveness: If your loved one is still in pain after taking medication, he or she may need additional treatment. Tell your Avow team so we can make medicine or dosage changes that bring you relief. Nausea: Opioids can cause an upset stomach for the first few days, as the body adjusts to the medicine. Encourage the patient to eat a light snack (such as crackers) when taking opioid pain medication. Your Avow team may also treat the nausea with medication until it goes away. Tell your Avow team about nausea that does not go away, as it may be related to your condition. Remember: Do not skip or provide extra doses unless instructed by the Avow Hospice nurse.Constipation Hospice patients may experience constipation as a result of taking pain medication, moving less, eating and/or drinking less, or transitioning into a new phase of illness. They may suffer hard or infrequent stools that cause a great deal of anxiety, pain, and agitation. While bowel habits can vary from person to person, hospice patients should have a bowel movement at least once every three (3) days.  Signs and Symptoms: Dry, hard (pellet-like) stools Inability to pass stool Abdominal bloating Oozing, watery leakage Rectal pain or pressure If the patients constipation is left unmanaged, he or she may experience extreme pain, cramping, nausea, and vomiting. What can help with constipation? 1. If the patient is physically able to tolerate, or if his or her diet allows: Increase fluid intake to 6-8 glasses per day o Choose warm fluids such as water with lemon, tea, or prune juice Eat fibrous foods o Examples are bran, whole grains, fruits and vegetables Walk or do light Range of Motion (ROM) exercises Sit upright on the toilet, bedside commode, or bedpan Avoid fiber supplements (like Metamucil) as these can make symptoms worse 2. Keep a record of the patients bowel movements including date/time, consistency of stool (hard, soft, watery).  3. Talk to your Avow hospice nurse about prescribing a stool softener or laxative to help manage constipation.  What should you report to your Avow hospice team? The patient feels constipated or has not had a bowel movement in three (3) days Other symptoms such as nausea/vomiting, straining, diarrhea, pain, or rectal bleeding ,Dispelling the Myths of Opioids Opioids (oh-pee-oyd) is a class of drug that interacts with nerve cells in the body and brain to reduce feelings of pain and trouble breathing. Use of opioids in hospice care is common, necessary and a safe treatment option for pain and other symptom management. Your Avow Hospice nurse can address any questions or concerns you or the patient may have regarding the treatment plan and/or side effects of medications. Top 5 Myths of Opioid Use 1.Opioids are addicting Prescribed use of opioids to treat pain and other symptoms does not lead to addiction. This fearfulness to take pain medication can lead to suffering. Addiction is a chronic disease and only happens when a person misuses drugs despite physical or social harm. Addicts are not in control of their drug use. Opioids are strictly monitored and assessed on a routine basis. Always tell your care team if there is history of drug or alcohol abuse. 2.If a person takes large doses of opioids early in their disease process, the opioids will not be as effective later on when he/she needs higher doses. Tolerance is a reduced response to a drug used repeatedly. Hospice patients develop tolerance as their disease and symptom management needs increase. The right dose should give the same relief for quite a while. In many cases, the dose may increase when symptoms are worsening, then treatment could change to a lower dose once relief has been reached. If you are worried about this, talk to your care team about preferred options. 3.Giving opioids to a terminally ill patient will speed up death. Research shows that the use of opioids does not lead to a faster death. It is the disease that causes death, not the pain medicine. The small opioid dose for a hospice patient in their final weeks, days, or hours is to be used for comfort and relief of suffering and to allow the patient to experience a peaceful and dignified death. Withholding or withdrawing pain medication at the end of life is not appropriate or safe.Dyspnea (Trouble Breathing) Dyspnea (disp-nee-uh) is a medical term for troubled breathing. This symptom is closely related to heart and lung diseases. Experiencing difficulty breathing causes anxiety, agitation, fatigue and restlessness.  It may also interfere with daily activities such as eating, bathing, walking, talking and visiting with friends and family.  Signs and Symptoms Rapid breathing Tightness in the chest A feeling of being winded  Inability to speak in full sentences  Fear or panic about not getting enough air in or out of the lungs  What can be done to prevent and treat troubled breathing? Remain calm and reassuring for the patient o  Watch the Avow.TV Safe Place Imagery & Relaxation Music video Reposition the patient until his/her breathing improves o Raise the head of bed o Place pillows under the patients head, back and neck o Transfer the patient to a chair or recliner Increase air movement in the room by opening a window or using a fan  Apply a cool cloth to the patients head or neck Lead the patient in the pursed lip breathing exercise shown in the Avow.TV Caregiver Training video  Ask your Avow team about oxygen therapy for the patient . Your Avow Hospice nurse will train you how and when to safely administer oxygen  Medications (such as morphine or a nebulizer) may be needed to help o Your Avow Hospice nurse will discuss this with you and train on potential side effects  What should you report to your Avow hospice team? Breathing problems that continue or worsen   New or worsening cough  Need for additional oxygen or medication supplies for the patientEdema (Swelling)  Edema is unusual fluid buildup in the feet, ankles, legs, arms, hands or face. Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), liver, kidney or thyroid disease, and cancer can cause edema. Medications and diets with high salt can make the swelling worse.  Signs and Symptoms: Swollen joints, extremities or face  Trouble breathing Tightness in the skin or clothing  Indents or dimples left by accessories such as rings, watches or necklaces  Fluid oozing from the skin  What can be done to prevent and treat edema? Elevate the patients head, arms and/ or legs to a comfortable position o Your Avow Hospice nurse or aide will train you how to safely position and move the patient using pillows and assistive devices Avoid sitting, standing or crossing legs for long periods of time Limit consumption of high amounts of sodium (salt)  Examples are canned soups, processed foods and preserved meats  Wear compression stockings o Your Avow Hospice nurse can discuss this option with you and train you on their use Medications (such as diuretics) may be needed to treat edema  o Your Avow Hospice nurse can discuss this option with you and train you on potential side effects and dosage frequency  What should you report to your Avow hospice team? Any new or changed swollen areas Tenderness or pain in a reddened area  Changes in the color or temperature of the skin Trouble breathing or a persistent cough  Managing Fatigue Fatigue is defined as feeling tired, exhausted or generally lacking energy. This is a common symptom in both hospice patients and their primary caregivers. In hospice patients, fatigue may be caused by the persons illness, treatment, medications, emotions and other changes. For the caregivers, it is compassion fatigue and burnout. Education and support are essential with managing fatigue.   Signs and Symptoms: Increased agitation or restlessness Decreased motivation or lack of interest Emotional numbness Anxiety or sadness Sleep disruptions What can be done to prevent and treat fatigue in patients and their caregivers? Tell your Avow team about signs and symptoms you or the patient are experiencing Listen to your body and rest when you are feeling tired Establish a routine bedtime Take shorter naps earlier in the day Avoid caffeine before bedtime or patients: wear oxygen to sleep, if prescribed Prioritize and plan activities you enjoy .Allow time for self-care Utilize respite care Eat nutritious foods in small, easy-to-digest portions,  Protein, beans, fruits and vegetables Ensure or Boost What should you report to your Avow hospice team? Lifestyle or behavioral changes Treatments that are not working Medication side effects Avow is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (239)261-4404 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 1-800-273-8255 Sadness & Depression Skin Care Tips Seriously ill patients may experience two common skin problems: pressure ulcers and chafed skin. Pressure Ulcer (Bedsore): is an area of the skin that loses its blood supply for extended periods of time. The skin reddens, breaks down, and becomes painful. If left untreated, wounds and infections could develop. Bedsores can be found on tailbones/ buttocks, joints (elbows, heels, ankles), back of the head, hips and spine.   Chafed Skin: is an irritation caused by heat, moisture or friction. Chafed skin occurs in areas of the body where there are skin folds. Examples are: groin, under breasts or in the abdomen. It is especially important to keep these areas clean and dry.  Even with the most attentive care, patients may still develop skin problems because of their declining condition. Heres what you can do: Make sure the patient changes position at least every 2 hours oIf the patient is unable to move safely by himself/herself, you may need to help Use warm water and gentle soap for baths Apply a lightweight lotion to the skin after bathing to increase moisture Keep bed linens clean, dry and free from wrinkles Change and apply clean absorbent pads and diapers often to keep skin dry of the patient uses a bedpan or bedside commode, move the patient off after a couple minutes to avoid pressure on the tailbone Never apply heat or further irritate reddened skin Your Avow team can order special supplies for the patient if needed, including:  Alternating pressure pad Special dressings What should you report to your Avow hospice care team? Irritated, itching or reddened areas of the skin Painful, burning or tingling of the skin Open wounds or new growths Do not attempt to lift or reposition anyone if you are unsure about your ability to do so safely. Use the push or rolling techniques that your hospice team members train you to use. 

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How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Dementia and Alzheimer’s

By 2050, the number of people aged 65 and older with Alzheimersthe most common cause of dementiais expected to reach 12.7 million.  While this progressive brain disorder is quite common among older adults, it can be quite tricky to diagnose, and help is often not sought until its last stage. Fortunately, learning the warning signs and the various stages of Alzheimers can help you detect the disease early on for yourself or your loved one to help slow down its progression.WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMERS?While many consider the two synonymous or use them interchangeably, they are not exactly the same. Alzheimers is a degenerative brain disease that leads to dementia symptoms, whereas dementia is not a disease at all; it is a general term used to define cognitive decline, including memory loss and thinking difficulties. Dementia is essentially a result of Alzheimers.EARLY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMERSBecause misplacing things or having trouble finding words when speaking from time to time is a normal part of aging, more severe memory loss that could indicate Alzheimers can easily be overlooked. Researchers have identified a condition called mild cognitive impairment (MCI) that, for many people, is an early warning sign of dementia and Alzheimers.  Those experiencing MCI have problems with memory or cognitive function more noticeable to themselves but not yet serious enough to interfere with everyday life and activities. Although symptoms may be mild initially, seniors who exhibit MCI are often at a higher risk of developing Alzheimers disease or other conditions leading to dementia. However, its comforting to know that MCI is not always indicative of dementia, but it is something for older adults and their families to be mindful of.HERE ARE SOME EARLY SIGNS TO LOOK FOR:Memory: Losing items like keys around the house, forgetting a longtime friends name, getting lost in a place you visit often.Speech: Repeating oneself or struggling with vocabularyVisual Perception: Difficulty seeing, reading things, and judging distances.Concentrating, Organizing, or Planning: Struggling to make decisions or difficulty completing tasks like cookingDisorientation: Getting confused about the day of the week or where they areMood: Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable.Note: If one has Alzheimers, the symptoms above become more evident as the disease progresses into the later stages of Alzheimers, as shown in the next section.WHAT ARE THE STAGES OF ALZHEIMERS?Although many experts use just three overall termsmild, moderate, and severe to identify the diseases severity, there are seven distinct stages that may be more useful for tracking the progression of Alzheimers:Stage 1: NormalWhen you or a loved one is in the Normal stage, likely, you will not see any symptoms. You will be free of any cognitive or functional decline and considered mentally healthy by most people.Stage 2: Very Mild ChangesIn stage two, many people still will not notice anything different in the individuals behavior. However,  their memory will start slipping, including having difficulty remembering names at times.Stage 3: Mild Cognitive DeclineMemory problems are present and significant enough for close friends and family to notice. One may ask the same question repeatedly or have trouble acquiring new skills or multitasking.Stage 4: Moderate DeclineIn this stage, basic tasks start to become increasingly difficult. For example, one will notice theyre struggling to remember details about themselves or having trouble ordering from a menu.Stage 5: Moderate Severe DeclineThe basic demands of everyday life, like picking out clothing for the day, become difficult. One may be unable to remember the name of the president or their phone number.Stage 6: Severe Alzheimers Disease DeclineDelusions become an issue at this stage. The affected individual may mistake a person for someone else.. The end of this stage is marked by incontinence and the inability to speak.Stage 7: Very Severe Alzheimers DiseaseOnes ability to verbally communicate or express their thoughts is removed. Other physical complications also set in, with the affected individual usually unable to walk and sit up independently, smile, or hold their head up without assistance. People in this stage of the disease need around-the-clock help from caregivers as they can no longer care for themselves. Past the 7th stage, Alzheimers is terminal.Check out our Trusted Tips to learn how you can support a loved one through the different stages of Alzheimers.RISK FACTORS OF DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMERS Researchers have performed numerous studies to determine what happens in the brain as Alzheimers progresses, but the results have been inconclusive. However, many researchers believe most Alzheimers cases are due to genetics, lifestyle, and environment. The main risk factors include:Age: Alzheimers is not a normal part of aging, especially since many people enter their 80s with their cognitive abilities intact, but age increases risk; most people with the disease are 65 and older. After 65, the risk of developing the disease doubles every five years. Nearly one-third of people who are 85 and older have Alzheimers.Family History: Having an immediate relative, such as a parent or sibling with the disease, is believed to be a strong risk factor. This may reflect shared genetics, environmental factors, or sometimes both.Genetics: Scientists have found over 20 genes involved with Alzheimers disease, although only one gene, APOE-e4, appears to increase the risk significantly. Still, some people with the APOE-e4 gene never develop Alzheimers, while others who develop Alzheimers dont have the gene.HOW LONG DOES ALZHEIMERS DISEASE LAST?The brain changes that result in Alzheimers disease may begin ten years or more before the first symptoms appear, as amyloid plaques and tau tangles start to form, neurons die, and other harmful changes in the brain begin to occur.If diagnosed, a person with Alzheimers will live on average from 4 to 8 years; though some survive for as long as 20 years. Families living with the reality of caring for a loved one with Dementia or Alzheimers can often feel overwhelmed. At HomeWell, we offer Specialty Care plans that provide advanced support from experienced and compassionate caregivers trained to provide specialty care to address your specific needs. Request a free consultation for your loved one today.

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SBB Partner Spotlight by Florida Senior Consulting!

Do You Need Home Health Care, Memory Care, Assisted Living, Or Independent Living?We help with your senior living choices and ensure your ongoing quality of care. Overwhelmed by the options? We make finding senior care simple by providing personalized guidance each step of the way.(800) 969-7176

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How to Choose a Blog Topic

If your target client is the 55+ demographic, you'll want to watch our weekly series called "The Art of Marketing Well". In this series, our Director of Sales, Kelly Wain, brings you quick-tip marketing videos to expand your business reach. For more information, connect with us on Linkedin!

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How to Negotiate in Naples Florida

Buying or selling I am a certified Negotiations Specialist.

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Job Opportunities Near You

Caregivers Needed

Job DescriptionCaregiver/Personal Care SpecialistEssential Functions  Deliver exceptional care to the dedicated client in the comfort of their home.  Complete daily tasks in a safe and professional manner while treating your client like family, going above and beyond to enhance their quality of life.  Assist clients with personal care activities such us, but not limited to, personal hygiene, mobility assistance, light housekeeping, meal preparation and feeding.  Provide companionship and emotional support to clients promoting a positive, friendly and family type environment. Actively participate in entertaining activities such as playing table games or playing music of the clients choice.  Accompany clients on medical appointments and other outings, as needed.  Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all care provided.Qualifications  No prior experience required. Full training will be provided.  Empathy, compassion, and kindness a MUST  Must be reliable, dependable and on-time.  Previous experience as a home health assistant (HHA) is a plus.  CPR Certification (BSL)  Excellent communication skills. Must speak English.Benefits  Competitive hourly rate  Starting as contractor but with opportunity for advancement and growth based on performace  Flexible schedule, allowing you to choose your shift (24/7)  Ongoing training and education opportunities in the fieldIf interested, please apply directly on our website whitegloveec.com or call us at (239) 397-117

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Travel Companion (Nurse)

About GOMO TravelGOMO Travel is a Florida-based, high-touch, service-motivated concierge travel assistance company providing skilled and competent personal level travel services for those who need assistance. GOMO Travel is focused on developing assisted-travel solutions to get all travelers including those that may be fearful, anxious, medically-challenged, incapacitated or just needing assistance to their destinations around the world while providing peace of mind and freedom for their loved one(s) in the process. Focus on safety, attention to detail and the protective welfare of our travelers is our #1 priority, and we are dedicated to delivering superior assisted travel services to our travelers.Travel Companion (Nurse)GOMO travelers include the elderly, persons with travel anxiety or mobility challenges, and travelers that may just need assistance getting to their destinations and are seeking to travel with a trusted companion. We are seeking qualified registered nurses to become GOMO Travel Companions and join our growing GOMO Travel Team!As a GOMO Travel Companion you will accompany individuals that may have medical and/or related needs to help make their journey comfortable, enjoyable and stress-free. Medical considerations can be a significant source of stress and worry for many would-be travelers and their families, and as a medically-trained GOMO Travel Companion you will be providing compassionate travel assistance to help overcome even the most complicated travel challenges. GOMO Travel Companions are trained nurses, but do not work in any health or medical-related capacity with our travelers. However, they do provide the compassionate assistance and attention to detail our GOMO travelers and their families have come to expect from GOMO Travel.GOMO Travel Companion ResponsibilitiesAs a GOMO Travel Companion, your responsibilities shall include: Assisting travelers with their pre-arranged travel needs Picking up/drop off travelers from home or final destinations Carrying travelers luggage and helping stow carry-on bags (potentially exerting up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 lbs. of force frequently) Assisting travelers through security, departure gate, boarding and flight connections Handling interruptions and delays in travel itineraries and assisting with alternate arrangements Promptly and effectively dealing with transportation representatives (including airline agents, cab drivers, cruise agents, etc.) on travelers behalf to resolve issues in real time while accompanying travelers on trips Communicating updates throughout the trip to the travelers family members, GOMO staff and other relevant parties Assisting travelers through customs and baggage claim Making the travelers trip as pleasant and stress-free as possible Maintaining a safe and comfortable travel experience for the traveler While not on trips, assist CEO and other GOMO personnel with marketing, training, scheduling and related office and administrative functions, as needed from time to timeGOMO Travel Companion Minimum Qualifications Registered Nurse (license required, minimum 4-year degree) Friendly, thoughtful, caring, and compassionate people skills Exemplary interpersonal and organizational skills High attention to detail Ability to demonstrate responsiveness, sound judgment and awareness Excellent communication skills and ability to build rapport with travelers Ability to project trustworthiness, sense of security and confidence in dealings with travelers and their family members At least 25 years of age Comfortably assisting elderly travelers with anxiety or mobility issues Valid drivers license with clean driving record Successful background and screening checks Primary language is English but the ability to speak Spanish or another foreign language is a plus Must be willing to apply to Homeland Security Trusted Traveler Program Significant air travel experience required (previous experience as a travel agent or airline professional - e.g., flight assistant, airline or travel agent - is a plus) Ability to push a wheelchair with an adult traveler, assist travelers with transferring from a wheelchair and/or assist travelers with a walker (exerting up to 100 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 lbs. of force frequently with wheelchair travelers) On an occasional basis, longer trips or more remote destinations will require extended and consecutive periods of work until the trip is completeWhat GOMO Offers Competitive pay for service (base salary $40,000-$50,000 with variable incentive pay up to $30,000 based on trips; benefits related to the position will be discussed with each suitable candidate individually) Ability to quickly accrue personal airline travel miles and hotel points Opportunity to travel and visit new destinations Opportunity to meet new people and develop new relationships Personal satisfaction from helping others Opportunity to join and grow with a new and exciting start-up company that is shaping the assisted travel industry

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