Leslie Newlife

Senior Caregiving: The Multi-Generational Family Vacation

traveling

Traveling as a family offers a multitude of benefits. If you are a parent who is also a caregiver for your own parents, this often means planning a multi-generational trip. You may have young children, teens, yourselves and your parents along for the ride, and that requires some planning.

What Are The Benefits?

Sure, everyone loves a getaway. Most couples long for that kid-free vacation on a tropical beach somewhere. Hopefully, you get that. But for now, you are planning a family trip. Perhaps you are hoping to create memories for your children. Memories about traveling with not just their parents, but their grandparents as well. Perhaps your mother or father wants to visit their home country, or finally make it to Paris. Maybe it’s just a road trip to the other side of the country to visit more family.

Whatever the occasion, it’s important to plan a trip of this nature so that it goes as smoothly and safely as possible. Traveling with senior family members is rewarding and a great way to make memories, with that said, keep the following tips in mind for a smooth trip with seniors:

  • Research Your Destination

Pay particular attention to your accommodations. Do they have proper accessibility? If your loved one has mobility issues, will this be a problem? Are there elevators? Will you need to rent equipment, such as a walker or a wheelchair, or will you be bringing your own?

  • Secure Additional Coverage

If you are visiting overseas, be sure to purchase extra health coverage for all family members. This is important because you may not be covered in the event of injury or illness.

  • Check Medications

Be sure that your loved one has all of the appropriate medications. Make photocopies of prescriptions and write out dosages and times. It is also a good idea to research and locate a local pharmacy, just in case you need to replace lost or damaged medications on the road.

Taking a few extra steps prior to your trip can make a huge difference in your enjoyment of your trip. Be sure to take lots of pictures and videos. Try not to over schedule your trip and don’t forget to stop and rest when needed.

Some Differences Between Independent Living and Assisted Living

As seniors begin to advance in age, it may become increasingly difficult for them to maintain the lifestyle to which they are accustomed. This may be due to medical issues, transportation issues or even financial issues. Many may choose to move in with family members, but for some, this is simply not feasible. Many people may think that the next step would naturally be to begin looking at nursing homes, but that isn’t necessarily the case. When it comes to senior living and care, there are other options available for senior living. Two common options are Assisted Living and Independent Living communities. Though both options have many benefits, there are many differences between the two that may help to determine which option will work best. Below are some major differences between Independent Living and Assisted Living.

  • Services Offered

Independent Living (IL) communities are often also referred to as retirement communities. Most residents of these communities are of retirement age and remain almost completely independent. Often, IL residents will live in a separate house or condo within the retirement community. Many times, seniors choose this type of living arrangement because they are on fixed incomes and can no longer afford to live in their own home. Another positive for them is that they can continue to enjoy their independence while no longer having some of the responsibilities that go along with home ownership, such as lawn care, snow removal and keeping up with repairs.  In many IL communities, these services are often included in their monthly expenses. Many independent living communities may also offer social activities for residents.

Assisted Living communities offer more medical services than Independent Living communities. Residents still maintain as much independence as possible, but there is medical staff available to assist with tasks that they may no longer be able to complete on their own, such as maintaining medications, scheduling doctor appointments and providing transportation to appointments as needed. They may also receive assistance with some daily living skills, like grocery shopping, managing money and even preparing meals.

  • Cognitive and Physical Ability and Level of Independence of Residents

Independent Living communities are more appropriate for seniors who are still high functioning in the areas of cognitive ability and physical mobility. They are mostly able to complete most of their daily living tasks and need little to no assistance.

Assisted Living communities are best for seniors who have some difficulty getting around on their own or are experiencing a decline in their cognitive functioning. They may still be able to maintain a certain level of independence, but just need assistance in certain areas.

Let’s Focus On Email Marketing: Advertising, Marketing, Social Media & Sales

email

Your first contact with a prospective customer may not generate a sale. This is a fact, and when it comes to marketing communities for seniors, the decision process is rarely immediate.

The first time a senior or the caregiver comes to your site, they may not be ready to take that next step. They may be just beginning to consider retirement living or an assisted living community. It may be weeks, months or even years before they seriously pursue selecting a senior living community.

  • This is Why Email Marketing is So Important

When someone shows interest in your site, it’s imperative that you collect their email address. They may feel good about what you’re offering, but if they aren’t ready yet, there’s a good chance that by the time they are, your community is long forgotten. It’s important that you start building a relationship with them via email marketing.

  • Building Your List

You can build your list by practicing good inbound marketing techniques. Blogging, social media and offering an incentive in exchange for an email signup are a good place to start.

Be sure to offer value in the form of an eBook or other informative download. Send a series of welcome emails and then keep in touch. This is how you stay top of mind, so that in a few weeks or a few months, when they are ready to take the next step, you’ll be the first one they reach out to.

You can send emails about topics that are relevant to seniors and their caregivers. You can notify them of specials, new properties, events in the area and news about your community. Be sure to continue keeping them informed of the benefits you are offering. This is a good way to ensure that visitors to your site don’t just leave and forget about your community.

Make Retirement Living Exciting and Satisfying

retired

For some, there were probably many times when you worked that you said, “If only I had time for…” Now, you do. The senior years of your life provide excitement and satisfaction when you approach retirement living with a positive attitude. Here are some ideas for your new leisure time.

  • Travel

If your budget does not allow for expensive excursions, consider taking day trips. Get out and discover what neighboring regions have to offer. Research spots known for natural beauty and enjoy the outdoors in a new environment. Consult regional magazines to find information on festivals, concerts and events, especially designed for older adults.

  • Get Active on Social Media

Reconnect with old friends online. Play games with a chat feature so you find new buddies. Post about your hobbies and your grandchildren. Learn about new trends, listen to new music, check stock profiles, share your photos and play in fantasy sports leagues.

  • Become a Social Butterfly

Join a club for seniors and develop relationships with others enjoying their retirements. Make your life more interesting by seeking out new friends from other cultures. Learn a new language to further broaden your world. Attend parties, hang out in shopping malls and relax in coffee shops and sports bars.

  • Find a New Physical Activity

Give archery, badminton or water exercise a try. Take a dance class, enjoy paddle boating or learn to fly fish. Consult your doctor about what activities are suitable for you if have medical issues. There are always exercises you do can do at any level. Your body and mind both benefit.

  • Give Back to Your Community

Get involved in the local political scene. Attend city council and other government meetings. Stand up for a cause you believe in, such as education choice, minority rights or green living. Assist in organizing events to benefit charitable organizations.

  • Volunteer

Volunteer at local hospitals, veteran homes, animal shelters or food pantries. Be enthusiastic and caring to help raise the spirits of others in need. You will make many meaningful connections, your empathy will deepen and you will find yourself contented, engaged and uplifted.

Your time is now. Don’t simply while it away. Try to venture out and immerse yourself in activities you have dreamed of and things you have yet to imagine.

Importance of Professional Senior Home Care for Your Loved Ones

While it may be hard to deal with the fact that the people you care for are going through the aging process, taking on or planning their care does not have to be an overwhelming task. You can ensure that your loves ones are safe, happy and healthy with some professional assistance. Hiring senior care services helps to put seniors at ease and this is why you need to find the best provider available.

Professional Senior Care
In order for professional caregivers to be able to give high quality care, they undergo additional training during their employment. This is crucial for ensuring that seniors get the best care possible. Their expertise and advanced skills enable them to cater to an extensive range of elderly care services. The industry consists of professionals and dedicated caregivers who handle your elderly loved ones with respect, compassion and kindness.

Significance of Remaining Active
Physical therapy helps seniors minimize their dependence on other people whether they have a chronic illness or want to become healthier and improve their mobility. Being physically active restores and enhances an individual’s functionality. It also helps to reduce pain while increasing mobility to enhance balance and strength.

As people get older, it is normal for them to lose strength, balance and flexibility. It becomes more challenging for them to maintain general fitness. Losing such functions increases the risk of falling and serious injuries. Physical therapy, regular exercise and remaining as active as possible will help to restore these functions. Click here for Assisting Hands Houston.

Preventing and Managing Health Conditions
Diseases such as osteoporosis cause a progressive decrease in bone density and out people at a higher risk of injury. It is among the leading causes of falls that can be avoided. Regular and moderate physical activity can manage this type of condition.

Exercising is useful for alleviating the painful and distressing symptoms of other conditions such as arthritis. Physical therapy consists of exercises that are used to strengthen the joints and preserve their functionality. Discomfort is eased through various physical modifications and techniques.

Physical Therapy after Hospitalization
Minimizing physical activity can lead to adverse consequences such as falls, especially after a person has been hospitalized. Many elderly people become weak and are vulnerable to falling hospitalization. They need to physical therapy to regain their strength and avoid going back to hospital because of injuries. Without being active, the risk for various diseases increases. Lack of mobility can also lead to skin problems, including sores and ulcers.

Benefits of Physical Activities for Seniors
Physical activities influence the levels of strength that you are able to have and help to prevent major health problems such as heart attacks and stroke. Professionals educate seniors about how to function effectively, improve quality of life and take care of physical and mental health. If you do not move regularly, your joints are likely to become stiff and this can lead to pain.

Physical activities for seniors that are monitored by professional caregivers and medical personnel offer numerous benefits that go beyond becoming fitter and stronger. They renew the confidence and self-esteem of seniors, give them back independence and make it easier to perform daily tasks.

Author’s Bio

Lucy Jones has been writing as a freelance for more than 5 years. She enjoys research and writing about a wide variety of topics that she shares through different platforms. For more information about Assisting Hands Houston, please go to the site.

3 Ways to Manage Elder Care Disputes

Laughing

According to the U.S Census Bureau’s international population report An Aging World: 2015, the global population of individuals aged 65 and over rose by 55 million between 2012 and 2015. Correspondingly, as the elder population has increased so has the need for health services and caregiving. According to the report, adult children are the primary unpaid caregivers of their parents. Families acting as primary care givers face several challenges. Sometimes conflicts result from having to choose between home health services, a nursing home, or having an aging parent live with a relative. Other times deciding on how to pay for reoccurring medical expenses is a source of contention. No matter the issue, conversations regarding the care of an elder relative have the potential of becoming explosive. Before differing views lead to family drama consider one of these three options.

  • A Family Meeting

Family meetings are a good tool to use before an issue becomes a major problem. Similar to setting up a meeting for work, arranging a family meeting entails taking the initiative to contact family members and reserving a day, time, and place for the meeting. Preparing an agenda ahead of time will give attendees advanced time to think about what issues will be discussed and keep the focus of the meeting on track.

If someone lives out of state or far away, they can still be a participant via a video conferencing app like Facetime or by phone. The size of the meeting should remain fairly small. A suggested size is less than ten individuals. When determining who to include, consider non-family members like a close friend, neighbor, or house keeper who may have insight into what the caregiving needs are. Coordinating family meetings can be cumbersome, but well worth the work to open up the lines of communication between relatives.

Negative past experiences and estranged relationships are factors that can discourage individuals from desiring to meet so it is important to give reassurance that their participation is valuable. Lack of participation could lead to future problems especially if the outcome of the meeting is different than what an absent family member had in mind. If there is a strong likelihood of individuals becoming confrontational or tempers flaring consider family counseling to mend any damaged relationships. Conducting a family meeting while injured relationships exist may prove to be unfruitful.

  • Family Counseling

While the idea of family counseling can feel threatening, the benefits outweigh the discomforts. When there are estranged, broken, or damaged familial relationships, working together to come to a unanimous decision on the caregiving of an aging parent or relative can feel like an impossibility. However, in family therapy a therapist assists families dealing with high stress, communication breakdowns, depression, or anxiety. A family therapist is skilled and knowledgeable on how to improve communication, address painful past issues, engage family members in caregiving, and connect families with community resources. Through family counseling individuals receive the tools to rebuild trust, handle differences, and reconcile relationships.

  • Elder Care Mediation

A growing method for managing elder care disputes is mediation. In mediation, a trained qualified neutral third party named the mediator meets with individuals to facilitate resolutions to disagreements. The mediator schedules a day and time for family members to meet, listens to each relative’s concerns, clarifies disputed issues, and aids the group in generating a creative solution to the problem or problems. Mediation is a confidential informal process where the mediator provides a safe environment for people to talk and empowers participants to be collaborative decision-makers. Mediation differs from therapy in that while families may reconcile the purpose of the mediation is to come to an agreed plan of action. Mediators are versed in advanced conflict resolution methods and possess the skills to bring disputing parties to consensus. Should the parties reach an agreement, the terms of their agreement are written out in detail forming a binding contract enforceable like any other contract.

When seeking a mediator, one should consider experience level, cost, and familiarity with elder issues. The state of Texas has formed community dispute resolution centers supported by qualified mediators to provide affordable conflict resolution services at a minimal cost. Organizations such as Dispute Resolution Services of North Texas in Tarrant County help families resolve elder care disputes in addition to other types of conflicts. Furthermore, there are numerous private mediators with diverse backgrounds, professions, and specializations.

To find a mediator in your area visit:

Author: Annette Smith has ten years of experience in the field of mediation as a mediator and advocate for the greater use of alternative dispute resolution systems. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Communication from Texas A&M University and is an employee of Dispute Resolution Services of North Texas Inc. (DRS North Texas) in Fort Worth, Texas. DRS North Texas is a non-profit community dispute resolution organization of professional volunteer mediators who provide affordable mediation services and teach mediation and dispute and conflict resolution, an effective alternative to litigation. For more, visit drsnorthtexas.org.

Marketing to Seniors: Learning to Speak the Language of a Service Savvy Generation

marketing

Today’s seniors are inundated with marketing specifically designed to catch their attention. But what do seniors really want? Simply stated, today’s senior is probably looking for reliable goods and services and excellent customer service.

Reflecting back to how things were 50 years ago gives us a vantage point for the senior’s expectations. Seniors grew up in a time when stores were compartmentalized by specialty and service was paramount. If something broke, they took it back to the source and the issue was quickly resolved, often by someone they knew. In today’s world, things are not so easy anymore. We no longer know the folks down at the hardware store, as it has been replaced by the large, franchised mega­-store. A phone call to a business may result in a quagmire of automated questions. Times have changed, but many seniors long for the way things were.

Below are some helpful “Marketing to Seniors” tips for your business.

  • There are ways to incorporate the ways of the past while marketing cutting-edge products and services to seniors. Seniors want to speak with an individual and they do not like automated attendants. Enhance your product or service with live customer service.
  • Seniors are inherently frugal, but will invest in quality. Products and services should be promoted with quality outcomes, testimonials and third-party endorsements. Seniors will most likely buy what they believe in.
  • Ensure individuals directly marketing to seniors have enough “life experience” to garner the respect of their elders. Seniors value hard work and a strong work ethic and may make a quick judgement if the individual does not outwardly convey these values.
  • Seniors are tech savvy and will research product and service reviews online. Try to ensure that your online presence is positive. Many seniors are connected to social media, so when marketing a community, a strong social media presence is vital to your success. It is also a good idea to post pictures of seniors experiencing the community. Post daily menus and activities, as well as comments and reviews. Allow the senior to connect with the community.
Overall, marketing to seniors should be carried out in a way that demonstrates value and service. Today’s senior is savvy and knowledgeable. Promote quality and service and focus on interpersonal connection. Provide excellent follow-through for successful outcomes.

Advertising, Marketing, Social Media and Sales: Use Predictive Analytics to Make the Sales Process Easier

salesmarket

“I like to think of sales as the ability to gracefully persuade, not manipulate, a person or persons into a win ­win situation,” Bo Bennett.

Most senior care business directors and owners have one goal: find new residents and clients. However, though finding customers can happen without planning and direct action, it’s much better to understand how to prospect. You can then use prospecting to attract clients who are more likely to move into your community. Though prospecting is just one part of the sales process, many professionals consider it the second most crucial part, next to asking for or closing the sale.

For many,

  • Qualifying questions come naturally. “Is the person you’re speaking with a decision-­maker for the family? Is he or she already shopping around for a solution?” etc.
  • The approach and presentation are a given after you get your foot in the door; and
  • You rarely get the sale without a formal close.

However, without prospecting, many SMB owners waste time trying to sell to people who aren’t ready to make a decision, cold and lukewarm leads at best.

The Steps to Simple Prospecting:

  • Define your ideal customer or target market and the decision-­maker who will actually sign on the dotted line:

(ie. the adult child earning $X/year, the active senior couple with X hobbies and $X retirement savings, etc.) The more specific and detailed you are in your description, the easier finding prospects will be.

  • Use a soft approach:

Cold calling is hard for people who aren’t seasoned sales pros. However, there’s a way to soften things. Prospecting is part of that. Try sending a piece of direct mail or email first before calling on the phone. Asking the person if they received your correspondence is a much easier way to start a potential sales conversation. Direct mail is more memorable than email. Try sending a little 3 x 4­ inch booklet or a standard tri­-fold brochure that beautifully advertises your community or care service; along with a cordial sales letter with a call-­to-­action asking them to call you or contact you online.

  • Aim for reachable goals with your campaign:

Too many business owners aim for an immediate year lease. However, you may want to close a free trial weekend, social event or something softer and easier for your potential clients to agree to. This will make the whole encounter easier for you and them.

Growing and managing a senior living community in the modern marketplace isn’t easy. There’s a lot of competition. However, one of the easiest ways to stay afloat is to use big data to qualify leads for your organization. Data analysis provides you with a very rich prospect pool of people more likely to want or need your product or service, who are also financially able to pay for it.

Predictive analytics can help you reach your business goals using proven methodology. With the peace of mind that you’re building your business on a solid foundation of serving clients who truly want or need your product or services, you can then feel free to focus your attention on building your brand and reputation the right way.

Marketing the Retirement Community to Seniors

Copy of retirement-ahead

For years, the retirement industry has focused on the Baby Boomer population and has anticipated the changes they would bring to senior living complexes. Boomers are here, and they are somewhat a surprise to developers and housing providers. Instead of a focus on opulent surroundings and a relaxing ambiance, today’s senior is most likely looking at staying active and engaged.

A study completed in 2005 showed that 29 percent of seniors were interested in web based education. That figure is expected to grow. Seniors want to live in communities that provide state-­of­-the-art computer systems and support. Active post­-retirement adults are technologically savvy and they want services that allow them to get online. They are looking for college courses, wellness classes and recreational activities on the Internet. Communities that woo these consumers will have to provide reliable connectivity and, perhaps, even closed-circuit learning opportunities.

People in their 60s and beyond have experienced a lot of change and want to leave a legacy that matters. In great numbers they espoused ecological responsibility, down to recycling and organic food preparation. That means they want the place they call home to reflect those values.

Another change that retirement communities must make if they are to stay viable is moving from a quiet place to “spend their last years” to a vital place to begin a new life. Seventy-six percent of Boomers intend to work beyond retirement age. Many are looking for second careers. That means senior living complexes must meet needs for transportation, networking, investment education and other resources. Boomers are also more active than any older population segment has ever been. Communities that hope to attract them should have things like biking and hiking paths, gyms, exercise rooms and pools on site or close at hand.

One problem in all of this is that the economy has hit many seniors hard. Retirement funds and investments have ridden a roller coaster since 9­-11 and Boomers are wary of lavish spending. In the competitive market of senior living complexes, this translates to the issue of providing the services at a price seniors can afford. Communities that offer discounts and “coupons” may gain an edge.

Today’s senior is a different brand than those of yesterday. Marketing to that person who is determined to be strong and vital well into old age, and to leave a legacy of education and social consciousness will be the key to whether a senior living community thrives.

5 Tips for Moving Seniors to a New Residence

moving

Seniors may reach a point in their lives where they are unable to live independently. It can be very trying and stressful for both the senior and family members at this point. There are many emotional and financial hardships that may go along with making decisions regarding senior living and care. Whether moving the elderly individual in with family, into a care home or an assisted living community, this decision is not easy and must not be taken lightly. There are many factors to be considered. Below are some tips on moving seniors to a new residence.

  • Consider the Wants and Needs of the Senior

While it is important to ensure the needs of the senior are met, it is also important to consider what he/she wants when faced with the possibility of a move. This individual will be leaving a home that he/she may have been in for most of his/her life. The new residence may be where he/she will spend the remainder of his/her life. It can be easy for family members to focus more on the cost and other aspects of the move, but the senior’s wants and needs also need to be given consideration.

  • Research Options

There are many options today for senior living. Before a move is finalized, research should be done to ensure the best option is chosen for the senior. Communities may differ from state to state, as well as financing available. Families should research all options with the senior to ensure the right decision is made. It is also important to know the laws. Depending on the funding source for care and housing, the senior may need to downsize their assets in order to receive funding. For example, if they receive assistance from Medicaid, their income needs to remain under a certain amount in order to be eligible. This means certain assets, such as their home and bank accounts, may put them over the poverty line and make them ineligible for assistance.

  • Plan Every Aspect of the Move

From the moment the decision is made for the senior to move to a new residence, planning should begin. Where will the senior be moving? What is the monthly cost? How will that cost be paid? Who will assist with the move? When will the move take place? How will the family ensure the move is as comfortable as possible for their loved one?

  • Enlist the Help of Others

Moving a senior relative can be a very stressful and emotional time. One person should not feel as if they have to handle it alone. They should seek assistance from other relatives, friends and/or neighbors.

  • Downsize
Downsizing may be one of the most difficult aspects of moving a senior to a new residence. This can be both time-consuming and emotional. What is important is to make sure that the senior is involved in this process so that he/she can still feel as if they are in control of the situation. Moving may be necessary for health and/or safety reasons, but the senior may be very resistant to leaving his/her home. This part of the process requires patience and caring. This is a stressful time in the senior’s life and he/she needs as much help and support as possible.