Private Duty Home Care vs. Senior Home

Private Duty Home Care vs. Senior Home

As our loved ones age, providing them with the care and support they need becomes a significant consideration. Traditionally, senior homes have been the go-to option for families seeking professional care for their elderly members. However, in recent years, private duty home care has emerged as a compelling alternative. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of private duty home care and why it can be a better option than a senior home for seniors who wish to maintain their independence and quality of life.

 

Personalized Care in Familiar Surroundings

 

One of the most significant advantages of private duty home care is that it allows seniors to receive personalized care in the comfort of their own homes. Senior homes may provide a safe environment, but they often lack the personal touch and familiarity that home can offer. Private duty caregivers are able to tailor their care to the individual needs and preferences of each senior, ensuring that their daily routines, hobbies, and interests are respected and incorporated into their care plan. This level of personalization fosters a sense of security and promotes emotional well-being, which is crucial for seniors’ overall health.

 

Independence and Freedom

 

Seniors value their independence and the ability to make choices that affect their daily lives. Private duty home care enables seniors to retain their sense of autonomy, allowing them to decide how they want to spend their days, what they want to eat, and how they want to engage with their community. This level of freedom can significantly contribute to their mental and emotional well-being, as they are not confined to the schedules and rules of a senior home.

 

Familiarity and Comfort

 

Home is where memories are made, and it holds sentimental value for seniors. Moving to a senior home can be an emotionally challenging experience, as it often involves leaving behind a lifetime of memories and cherished belongings. Private duty home care eliminates the need for such a drastic change, allowing seniors to stay in an environment they are familiar with. This familiarity can provide a sense of comfort and stability, reducing the stress and anxiety that can come with transitioning to a new living arrangement.

 

One-on-One Attention

 

Private duty home care provides seniors with individualized attention that might be challenging to achieve in a senior home setting. Caregivers are able to focus solely on the senior they are assisting, ensuring that their needs are met promptly and comprehensively. In contrast, senior homes often have a higher ratio of residents to caregivers, which can lead to longer response times and less personalized care.

 

Cost-Effectiveness

 

While the cost of private duty home care might initially seem higher than that of a senior home, it’s essential to consider the full scope of expenses. Senior homes often come with a fixed monthly fee that covers accommodation, meals, and some basic services. However, additional charges can quickly accumulate for specialized care, medication management, and activities. With private duty home care, families have more control over the services provided, which can lead to a more cost-effective solution tailored to the senior’s specific needs.

 

Reduced Risk of Isolation

 

Seniors who stay at home and receive private duty care are more likely to maintain their social connections and remain engaged with their communities. Isolation and loneliness are common concerns in senior homes, where residents might have limited opportunities to interact with others. In-home care allows seniors to continue participating in local activities, clubs, and gatherings, fostering a sense of belonging and combating feelings of loneliness.

 

Conclusion

 

Choosing between private duty home care and a senior home is a decision that requires careful consideration of the senior’s preferences, needs, and overall well-being. While senior homes have their merits, the personalized care, independence, familiarity, and emotional benefits offered by private duty home care are compelling reasons to consider this option. By opting for private duty home care, families can provide their beloved seniors with the comfort, respect, and support they deserve in their golden years.

Companion Care: Fostering Socialization and Enhancing Quality of Life for Seniors at Home

Companion Care: Fostering Socialization and Enhancing Quality of Life for Seniors at Home

As the population ages, the importance of ensuring the well-being and happiness of seniors becomes paramount. One crucial aspect of senior care that often goes overlooked is socialization. Loneliness and isolation can have severe consequences on a senior’s physical and mental health. Companion care emerges as a powerful solution, offering personalized support and companionship to seniors in the comfort of their homes. Let’s explore the numerous benefits of companion care for seniors and how it can make a positive difference by stimulating socialization.

 

Understanding the Need for Socialization Among Seniors

 

Aging can sometimes lead to changes in life circumstances, such as the loss of friends and loved ones, retirement, or limited mobility. These factors can contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation in seniors, leading to increased risk for depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Socialization is a critical aspect of healthy aging, as it promotes mental stimulation, emotional well-being, and a sense of purpose.

 

What is Companion Care?

 

Companion care involves the provision of non-medical support and companionship to seniors who live independently at home. Trained and compassionate caregivers, also known as companions, spend time with seniors engaging in conversation, recreational activities, and other social interactions. Companion care services are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each individual, promoting a personalized and holistic approach to senior care.

 

The Benefits of Companion Care for Seniors

 

Combatting Loneliness and Isolation

 

First off, the primary benefit of companion care is its ability to combat loneliness and isolation among seniors. Having regular interactions with a friendly and empathetic companion can provide seniors with the emotional support they need, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.

 

Promoting Mental and Emotional Well-Being

 

Companion care stimulates mental and emotional well-being by engaging seniors in various activities. These activities can range from playing board games and doing puzzles to reminiscing about cherished memories. The mental stimulation helps keep the mind sharp and can even contribute to a reduced risk of cognitive decline.

 

Encouraging Physical Activity

 

Companions can also assist seniors in maintaining an active lifestyle. Whether it’s going for walks, participating in light exercises, or gardening together, physical activities contribute to improved physical health and overall well-being.

 

Enhancing Communication and Cognitive Skills

 

Next, regular socialization through companion care allows seniors to practice their communication and cognitive skills. Engaging in conversations and discussions with companions can help improve memory, language abilities, and problem-solving skills.

 

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

 

Last of all, the presence of a compassionate companion can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels in seniors. The sense of security and reassurance that comes from having someone to talk to and rely on can lead to a more relaxed and content state of mind.

 

Increasing Quality of Life

 

Companion care plays a significant role in enhancing the overall quality of life for seniors. By addressing their social, emotional, and physical needs, companion care enables seniors to maintain their independence and enjoy life to the fullest.

 

The Importance of Personalized Care

 

Companion care takes a person-centered approach, ensuring that each senior receives personalized attention and companionship that aligns with their interests and preferences. This individualized care fosters meaningful connections between the senior and their companion, leading to more fulfilling social interactions.

 

Companion care is a valuable resource that addresses the critical need for socialization among seniors. By providing personalized support and companionship, companion care helps combat loneliness, stimulate mental and emotional well-being, and promote physical activity. With its myriad of benefits, companion care has the potential to make a positive difference in the lives of seniors, empowering them to age gracefully and maintain a high quality of life in the comfort of their homes. As we prioritize the health and happiness of our aging population, companion care stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that seniors receive the care and companionship they deserve.

What Is A Caregiver?

What Is A Caregiver?

Caregivers play a crucial role in society by providing essential support and assistance to individuals in need. From assisting seniors with daily activities to supporting individuals with disabilities, caregivers offer a wide range of services that promote independence, well-being, and quality of life. In this post, let’s explore what a caregiver is, delve into the various services caregivers provide, and shed light on their invaluable contributions.

 

Defining Caregivers

 

A caregiver is an individual who provides physical, emotional, and practical assistance to those in need, often including the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities, and those recovering from surgeries or injuries. Caregiving can be formal or informal, ranging from professional caregivers hired through agencies to family members or friends who take on caregiving responsibilities.

 

Services Offered by Caregivers

 

Personal Care

 

Caregivers assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and feeding. They ensure personal hygiene, manage medications, and monitor vital signs to ensure the well-being and safety of their clients.

 

Companionship

 

Caregivers provide social interaction and companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. They engage in conversations, accompany individuals on outings, play games, or simply offer a listening ear.

 

Household Support

 

Caregivers help with household chores like cleaning, cooking, laundry, and grocery shopping. These tasks ensure a clean and organized living environment for their clients, promoting a comfortable and healthy lifestyle.

 

Mobility Assistance

 

Caregivers assist individuals with limited mobility in moving around safely. This includes helping with transfers, using mobility aids, and providing support during walks or exercises, minimizing the risk of falls or accidents.

 

Transportation

 

Caregivers offer transportation services, ensuring that their clients can attend medical appointments, social events, or run errands. This enables individuals to maintain their independence and stay connected with their community.

 

Emotional Support

 

Caregivers provide emotional support and encouragement, creating a nurturing and compassionate environment for their clients. They listen attentively, offer reassurance, and help manage stress, anxiety, or depression.

 

Medication Management

 

Caregivers assist with medication management, ensuring that medications are taken correctly and on time. They may organize pillboxes, administer medications, and keep track of prescription refills.

 

Care Coordination

 

Caregivers often serve as liaisons between clients, family members, and healthcare professionals. They schedule appointments, communicate with doctors, and coordinate care plans, ensuring holistic and comprehensive support.

 

Importance of Caregivers

 

The services provided by caregivers have a profound impact on the well-being and quality of life of those in their care. Caregivers not only fulfill practical needs but also offer emotional support, companionship, and a sense of security. They promote independence, dignity, and a sense of purpose for their clients.

 

Furthermore, caregivers alleviate families of stress, allowing them to balance their own lives while ensuring their loved ones receive the care they require. Without caregivers, many individuals would face significant challenges in carrying out daily activities, maintaining their health, and participating in their communities.

 

Conclusion

 

Caregivers play a vital role in our society, offering invaluable services to individuals in need of assistance. Whether it’s aiding with personal care, providing companionship, or managing household tasks, caregivers enhance the lives of those they care for. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment deserve recognition and support. As we acknowledge the significance of caregivers, let us appreciate their contributions and strive to create a society that values and supports the essential role they play.

 

Learn more about North Oakland Caregivers here.

Planning to Age in Place: Embracing Comfort at Home

As we journey through life, it’s only natural to desire a sense of familiarity and security in our surroundings. This sentiment is particularly strong when it comes to aging gracefully. The concept of “aging in place” has gained popularity in recent years, emphasizing the importance of maintaining independence and staying in the comfort of our own homes as we grow older. Let’s explore how to plan for aging in place, the support systems for a successful plan, common concerns, and how to begin.

 

Planning to Age in Place

 

Our needs are constantly changing, so planning ahead to age in place can often be difficult. In our experience, we have noticed that there are common first considerations when beginning a plan. The first step in planning to age in place involves a thorough evaluation of your current living situation and future needs. Consider the following factors:

 

Home Assessment

 

Assess your home’s suitability for aging in place. Examine factors such as accessibility, safety modifications, and potential barriers. Evaluate doorways, staircases, bathroom layouts, and other areas that may require adjustments to accommodate changing mobility.

 

Lifestyle Considerations

 

Reflect on your lifestyle and preferences. Are you willing to downsize or modify your home to make it more manageable? Think about potential changes in healthcare needs, social support, and proximity to essential services.

 

Financial Planning

 

Review your financial situation and determine the resources available to support your aging-in-place plan. Consider healthcare costs, potential modifications to your home, and long-term care insurance options.

 

What Support Can Help Me Age At Home?

 

Aging in place is a hard thing to do alone. As you age, your ability to complete daily routines changes. It’s natural to need help doing some of the tasks you used to be able to do alone. With caregiving, you can receive a range of support services to help you comfortably age in place. Some of the services include:

 

Personal Care

 

  • Bath/Shower
  • Skin Care/Lotion Massage
  • Shave
  • Shampoo
  • Oral Hygiene/Assist

 

Household Chores

 

  • General Housekeeping
  • General Laundry
  • Linen Changes

 

General Wellbeing

 

  • Meal Preparation
  • Feed Client/Assist
  • Hydration
  • Temperature
  • Blood Pressure
  • Medication Reminder

 

Mental Stimulation

 

  • Games
  • Cards
  • Puzzles
  • Word Search

 

Transportation

 

  • Doctor’s Appointments
  • Hairdresser Appointments
  • Grocery Shopping
  • Senior Citizen Centers
  • Movie
  • Church

 

Common Concerns About Aging In Place

 

Despite the benefits, there are common concerns associated with aging in place. Addressing these concerns will help you develop a comprehensive plan:

 

Safety

 

Home safety is a top priority. Implement modifications such as installing handrails, grab bars, non-slip flooring, and adequate lighting. Consider technology solutions like emergency call systems or medical alert devices.

 

Social Isolation

 

Isolation and loneliness can become prevalent as we age. Plan for social engagement by participating in community activities, joining clubs or interest groups, maintaining connections with friends and family, and having a caregiver who can fulfill your companionship needs.

 

Healthcare Accessibility

 

Have you ever worried about not being able to get transportation to your next doctor’s appointment? Or to pick up your prescription? With caregiving services, your caregiver unlocks accessibility to important healthcare appointments, and other destinations on your to-do list.

 

Start Your Plan To Age In Place

 

Understanding your needs is critical in enabling us to help you achieve your plan to age in place. Give us a call at (248)-625-8484 and learn more about how we can help you comfortably age in place with the help of our caregiving services!

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

North Oakland Caregivers FAQs

General FAQs

 

North Oakland Caregivers FAQs

 

How Do I Start Care with North Oakland Caregivers?

 

Step 1

Call our main number (248)-625-8484 and tell us that you are interested in our caregiving services. Our Client Services Specialist will speak with you and ask about what you or a loved one may need assistance with. We can then provide an overview of the services that we offer and which make the most sense for your needs.

Step 2

Once you have decided that you would like to move forward, you can either schedule a visit at our main office, conveniently located off of I-75 in Clarkston, MI, or we can visit your home to get familiar with the family member needing help and the surrounding home environment. We will discuss the type of care needed, days preferred, and number of hours needed.

Step 3

Once the assessment is complete, our Coordinator of Care begins the process of finding the right caregiver for the job, a caregiver with the skills, location, and availability needed to ensure a comfortable experience.

Step 4

Next, we will schedule what we call a “meet and greet” – a visit to your loved ones home with the caregiver and any family member that would like to be involved, to give everyone a chance to gain a level of comfort.

Step 5

Once this is completed, we are up and running! A professional member of our care team will begin their first visit on the confirmed date and time scheduled. The first scheduled visit is often coordinated over the phone (assuming the meet and greet goes well) or can be decided after the completion of the meet and greet.

Watch our full video here to understand our onboarding process!

 

Do You Provide Home Care Services In My Home? In A Senior Living Community? Or During My Hospital Stay?

 

Our private one-on-one caregiving services are most commonly done in private homes.  However, we can also provide services in a hospital, rehab center, or assisted living.  It is becoming more and more common for people to seek additional care in these temporary care facilities as there is no substitute for one-on-one care.  

 

Do You Provide Around-The-Clock Care? Temporary Home Care Services? Or Respite Services?

 

We provide 24/7 care for many families and also any amount of hours between 4 and 24 hours.  We have two different options of 24/7 care depending on what is appropriate for your loved one.

North Oakland Caregivers does provide temporary home care services.  Many people need help after major surgeries or for end of life care.  Sometimes services are only needed for a few weeks.

We provide in-home respite services for those primary caregivers that are taking care of loved ones that need a break.  Caregiver burnout is a real thing.  We can provide relief for families.  This relief can be anywhere from 4 to 24 hours a day.

 

Can I Reach Someone At North Oakland Caregivers After Hours or On Weekends?

 

Yes!  North Oakland Caregivers has a representative on-call 24/7.  They will get back with you as soon as they can to help answer any question or concern you may have.

 

What If I Want To Change My Schedule?

 

If your current schedule no longer matches your needs, please give us a call and we will adjust your schedule to assure the best fit.

 

What If My Caregiver Is Not The Right Fit? What Do I Do?

 

If you think a caregiver is not the best fit, you can simply call our office at 248-625-8484 and your personalized scheduler will make sure to find you another caregiver.  We can usually do this extremely quickly.  We want all our clients to be happy.  To ensure this, both client and caregiver have to be a great fit for each other.

 

Are Your Services Covered By Long Term Care Insurance?

 

Yes!  In-home care services are covered by LTC Insurance.  In-home care services also go by the names private duty home care, custodial home care, non-skilled home care, etc.  

 

Does North Oakland Caregivers Submit Invoices To My LTC Provider On My Behalf?

 

Yes!  At the beginning of every month, North Oakland Caregivers will submit all necessary invoices and care notes to your LTC Provider to ensure timely reimbursement for care.  This allows the client/family member to relax and let us do all the submitting for you.

 

General Home Care FAQs

 

What Is Home Care? Is It The Same As Home Health?

 

Home caregiving refers to the provision of personalized care and assistance to individuals who require support with their daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication management, and companionship, within the comfort of their own homes. It is a service typically provided by trained caregivers to ensure the well-being and comfort of individuals who may be elderly, disabled, or recovering from an illness or surgery.

Home caregiving primarily focuses on non-medical tasks and enhancing the quality of life for the individual, home health, on the other hand, involves medical care provided by licensed healthcare professionals, such as nurses or therapists. Home health services include skilled nursing care, administering medications, wound care, physical therapy, and other medical treatments.

While both home caregiving and home health involve caring for individuals in their own homes, they differ in terms of the type of care provided, with home caregiving being more focused on personal assistance and home health encompassing medical services.

 

 

What Does A Caregiver Do?

 

A home caregiver performs a variety of tasks and responsibilities to ensure the well-being and comfort of individuals in need of assistance within their own homes. Some of the typical duties of a home caregiver include:

Personal Care

Assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting.

Medication Management

Ensuring medications are taken at the prescribed times and in the correct dosages.

Meal Preparation

Planning and preparing nutritious meals based on dietary needs and preferences.

Mobility Support

Assisting with mobility, transfers, and providing physical support as needed.

Companionship

Engaging in social interactions, conversation, and providing emotional support.

Household Chores

Performing light housekeeping tasks, such as cleaning, laundry, and organizing.

Transportation

Assisting with transportation to appointments, errands, or social activities.

Monitoring and Reporting

Observing and reporting any changes in health or behavior to appropriate family members or healthcare professionals.

Respite Care

Providing temporary relief to family caregivers by taking over their responsibilities for a specified period.

Documentation

Maintaining records and documenting activities, observations, and any notable incidents.

The specific responsibilities of a home caregiver may vary depending on the individual’s needs, the care plan established, and any specialized training or certifications they may have.

 

 

Who Would Benefit From Home Care Services?

 

Home care services can benefit a wide range of individuals who require assistance with their daily activities or specialized care within the comfort of their own homes. Some of the people who would benefit from home care services include:

Elderly Individuals

Aging adults who may have difficulty with mobility, chronic illnesses, or cognitive impairments can benefit from home care services. Caregivers can assist with personal care, medication management, meal preparation, and provide companionship to enhance their quality of life.

Individuals with Disabilities

People with physical or developmental disabilities can greatly benefit from home care services. Caregivers can help with mobility support, assistive devices, specialized care routines, and ensure a safe and comfortable environment tailored to their unique needs

Individuals Recovering from Illness or Surgery

Those recuperating from an illness, surgery, or medical procedure often require assistance during the recovery period. Home care services can provide support with medication management, wound care, rehabilitation exercises, and monitoring overall health and progress.

Individuals with Chronic Conditions

Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory disorders can benefit from home care services. Caregivers can help with medication reminders, symptom management, lifestyle adjustments, and provide ongoing support to manage their condition effectively.

Family Caregivers

Home care services can also benefit family caregivers who may be experiencing burnout or require temporary relief from their caregiving responsibilities. By entrusting the care of their loved ones to professional caregivers, family caregivers can take a break, tend to their own needs, and prevent caregiver fatigue.

Individuals in Need of Companionship

Loneliness and social isolation can negatively impact mental and emotional well-being. Home care services provide companionship and social interaction, enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals who may be living alone or lacking regular social connections.

Overall, home care services offer personalized support and assistance to individuals who require help with daily activities or specialized care, promoting independence, comfort, and an improved quality of life within the familiar surroundings of their own homes.

 

Can You Only Receive Care In A Private Residence?

 

No. While it is most common to provide services in a private residence, more and more families are seeking our one-on-one caregiver services in a hospital, rehab facility, and assisted living.  There is no substitute for one-on-one care and there are many situations where someone needs someone with them at all times to attend to their needs and to greatly reduce potential falls or accidents while recovering.

 

How Will I Know How Much Care I Will Need?

 

If you are unsure how much care will be needed, our coordinator of care will be able to speak with you over the phone and give an expert opinion.  We are available to come to the home or meet in our office to discuss options as well.  We are extremely flexible as we navigate this journey together.  Hours can increase or decrease at any time depending on the level of care needed.  We will adjust with you as things change and adapt to your needs.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Happy Mother's Day poem by Guillermo PeñaWe love this poignant poem and dedicate it to all our lovely mothers and their caring daughters.

A Letter from a Mother to Her Daughter

“My dear girl, the day you see I’m getting old, I ask you to please be patient, but most of all, try to understand what I’m going through. If when we talk, I repeat the same thing a thousand times, don’t interrupt to say: “You said the same thing a minute ago”… Just listen, please. Try to remember the times when you were little and I would read the same story night after night until you would fall asleep.

When I don’t want to take a bath, don’t be mad and don’t embarrass me. Remember when I had to run after you making excuses and trying to get you to take a shower when you were just a girl?

When you see how ignorant I am when it comes to new technology, give me the time to learn and don’t look at me that way… remember, honey, I patiently taught you how to do many things like eating appropriately, getting dressed, combing your hair and dealing with life’s issues every day…the day you see I’m getting old, I ask you to please be patient, but most of all, try to understand what I’m going through.

If I occasionally lose track of what we’re talking about, give me the time to remember, and if I can’t, don’t be nervous, impatient or arrogant. Just know in your heart that the most important thing for me is to be with you.

And when my old, tired legs don’t let me move as quickly as before, give me your hand the same way that I offered mine to you when you first walked. When those days come, don’t feel sad… just be with me, and understand me while I get to the end of my life with love. I’ll cherish and thank you for the gift of time and joy we shared. With a big smile and the huge love I’ve always had for you, I just want to say, I love you… my darling daughter. “

Original text in Spanish and photo by Guillermo Peña
Translation to English by Sergio Cadena

Top 3 Things Clients Say About US

Clients' reviews of North Oakland Caregivers in a word cloudOur clients have been generous with sharing their opinions about North Oakland Caregivers’ services, and we have felt grateful for that. After all, clients’ reviews have been our best recommendation for years!

This time, however, we got curious about specifics. What do our clients’ reviews have in common and what do they highlight the most? To find this out, we put all of our clients’ reviews in a word cloud program and the result was striking! If you remember how word clouds work, they make the words used most frequently bigger, so that they stand out more. And these were the top three words we saw:

I. CARE

This word stands for what we do – we take care of our clients’ daily needs. However, it also reflects how we do it – with care. And, while “CARE” as the most used word in our clients’ reviews was rewarding by itself, it got even better. We noticed that the top descriptions paired with it were “WONDERFUL”, “PROFESSIONAL”, and “COMPASSIONATE”. And we think it speaks volumes about the quality of service we and our caregivers provide!

II. JASON

Speaking about the quality of service, we also noticed people mentioned “JASON” quite a bit. What a glowing endorsement of the dedication that our Vice-President, Jason Lambart, puts into his daily interactions with clients! Together with his team, he makes sure any clients’ issues are addressed immediately, and new clients receive individualized advice and a support program proposal. Jason’s level of commitment and reliability provide the reassurance our clients seek as they trust us with the well-being of their loved ones.

III. CAREGIVER & RECOMMEND

The next words people used most often in their reviews were “CAREGIVER” and “RECOMMEND”. These are two words, not one, but we mentioned them together for a couple of reasons. First, the same size of these words suggests that clients used them with similar frequency, so, they share our third position for this reason. Second, both the company and the caregivers serve our clients’ interests to the best of their ability, and it looks like our clients notice and recommend both, the company and their caregivers.

We feel grateful and humbled by this show of consistent appreciation ❤ 

And if you came here looking for clients’ reviews, we hope you feel reassured. If so, please give us a call and see for yourself whether our “CARE” that worked for many of our clients can work for your family, too!

New Year’s Resolutions and Senior Home Care

Senior Home Care with North Oakland Caregivers - smiling senior mother and daughterJanuary traditionally triggers us to think about New Year’s resolutions. It just seems easier to create a new habit, make a big change for the better, and reinvent yourself at the beginning of a new year! Many people use the first months of the year to start something significant that will make a lasting impact on their lives. But this may also be the right time to make a lasting impact on the life of your senior family member, too. For example, taking a step towards planning for the future of your older mom or dad who may need assistance in their daily activities. The idea may feel daunting at the beginning but we are here to help. Today we share tips that come from years of our senior home care experience.

We know some seniors may not be immediately open to the idea of having a caregiver coming into their home to help them.  A perceived fear of loss of independence or temporary anxiety of having a “stranger” in the house might overshadow great long-term benefits.  Seniors can respond with resistance in many different ways. Frankly, family members might have their own concerns about how this new arrangement might work.

We understand. Every change requires an adjustment. Our experience has shown that slowly easing into this new “caregiver” scenario is often all it takes to relieve the concerns of starting a home care routine for your senior loved one.  Maybe having a caregiver come into their home once or twice a week just to give them an idea of what it’s all about might help alleviate their anxiety.  Or, maybe, one 8-hour day a week will do the trick. Maybe 4 hours a day, 2-3 days a week will help set a comfort level!  The key is starting small and adjusting to what the future needs will be.

Having a senior home care provider that is flexible enough to allow time to find the perfect routine for your senior loved one is a great solution.  North Oakland Caregivers at Clarkston, MI, has been doing it for 30+ years. We are waiting for your call. Are you ready to make the first step towards the New Year’s resolution that will make a lasting impact on the future of your family?

Caregiving Makes a Difference

Family celebrating holidaysIn our busy days throughout the year, it is very easy to forget or to let time pass by, without appreciating all the things that made your life a little better that put a smile on your face.  The holiday season traditionally helps us pause, observe and reflect. So, we thought it was a perfect occasion to share how caregiving touches lives – small acts of kindness bringing a big impact.

Our clients often give our caregivers the highest praise in their reviews. However, the little note below was different. It was sent directly to a caregiver from one of our clients showing her appreciation. We publish it with their permission:

“Hi, Vickie.  Hope all is well.  Sorry, it took so long to get back with you but “life” has been quite busy after my mom’s passing. (My brother and cousin were diagnosed with terminal cancer & uncle with dementia).   I can not thank you enough for sharing in my mom’s transition. You are truly a blessing to your patients.  I have been thinking about going into caregiving (for my family members) but not sure if I am able to handle such a delicate profession.  You are amazing for what you do.“

We wholeheartedly agree – our caregivers are amazing at making difficult times easy, turning fear and stress into human connection, and making this world better overall.

Sending warm wishes this Holiday Season!

How to Choose the Right Home Care

Senior couple making home care choicesChoosing a home care company for your loved ones can be stressful. How to find the “right” people? Who to turn to for a recommendation?

There might be many approaches to the search but we recently came across the one we really liked, and we decided to share it with you.

It all started with one of us looking for a provider from a completely different industry for their personal needs.  They come across an expert rating of such providers in their location, and the system of rating made a lot of sense to them. It was simple, factual, and credible because anyone could use the same criteria and arrive at the same results.

They used only two main criteria – Reputation and Experience because both of them can be easily researched by anyone. Reputation is based on customer reviews – many delighted customers and outstanding service lead to 5-star ratings. And the more people shaped that rating, the more reliable it is. Experience identifies masters of their trade based on years of being in business. After all, if you stay around for a long time, you must be doing something right!

You can apply this approach to any of your searches for the right provider. But, of course, our first thought was to check how it applies to the North Oakland Caregivers. And we passed this test with flying colors!

1. REPUTATION – 5-STAR REVIEWS
    • We are proud to have 5-star reviews on Google, Facebook, and our website. We consider this our best recommendation as the words of appreciation are coming directly from our clients’ experience.
    • These outstanding reviews are testimony to our human touch that comes from our hearts, not our duties. We know all our clients personally, we call them to just ask how they are doing, and we stop by when we can. We like it when it feels like a family.
2. EXPERIENCE – 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS
    • 30 years of home care experience means we have withstood the test of time and are not going anywhere
    • It also means we have gathered great expertise in the field of home care and in the understanding of what seniors and their families look for

So, there you have it. Now you’ve got an approach to assess any provider you are considering hiring, and in case you are looking for a caregiving company, you might want to include North Oakland Caregivers in your shortlist since we pass the test by the above criteria and more. So, we hope you give us a call, and we could discuss your family’s specific needs, and how we can help and be the “right” home care provider for your loved ones.