Blog

Routine In-Home Elder Care That’s Anything but “Routine”

2024-02-22T09:00:48-05:00

Establishing a routine can be a fundamental aspect of in-home elder care, especially for seniors facing mild cognitive challenges. But at Sunlight, we believe routine can be more than a schedule of tasks to be performed. It can be a source of joy, comfort, and personalized care! The Bright Side of Routine Think of routine as a warm embrace, a comforting rhythm that provides a sense of stability and predictability. It’s not just about keeping things organized, it’s about creating an environment that sparks joy, reduces anxiety, and fosters a sense of security. Boosting Mind and Body Beyond physical activities, routine [...]

Routine In-Home Elder Care That’s Anything but “Routine”2024-02-22T09:00:48-05:00

Grandparenting – Who Benefits More, Grandkids or Grandparents?

2024-01-30T09:11:40-05:00

Let’s recognize that one of the biggest achievements for grandparents can be contributing to their grandkids’ success! But did you know that while you were investing time in your grandkids, you were padding your account too? Read on to discover the important benefits of grandparenting and intergenerational bonding! Grandparenting - Benefits for Grandchildren Improved Academic Performance Children who enjoy close relationships with their grandparents are more likely to have higher academic success than those who do not, research suggests. Reading to the grandkids, playing educational games, sharing knowledge and experiences, and taking a genuine interest in your grandkids’ schooling helps set [...]

Grandparenting – Who Benefits More, Grandkids or Grandparents?2024-01-30T09:11:40-05:00

Independent Caregivers or Agency Caregivers For In-Home Care?

2024-01-25T07:00:42-05:00

You want to stay in your home. It’s familiar. It’s comfortable. You’ve got great neighbors. So, you’re looking into in-home care services to help you remain independent at home. One of the first decisions is whether to go with a private Caregiver or an in-home care agency Caregiver. If it’s just a question of the hourly rate, independent Caregivers typically charge less per hour than an agency does. But hourly rate alone is not an “apples to apples” comparison. Hidden Costs When Hiring a Private Caregiver Payroll Taxes.  When hiring a Caregiver directly, you are the employer. You have the responsibility [...]

Independent Caregivers or Agency Caregivers For In-Home Care?2024-01-25T07:00:42-05:00

Thinking About Moving Mom or Dad in With Your Family?

2024-01-11T07:00:44-05:00

You, your parent(s), and your kids all living under one roof? It’s more common than most people realize. In 2021 the U.S. Census Bureau reported 60 million people in the U.S. reside in these multigenerational households. A  PEW Research study found adult caregiving, along with financial benefits and companionship, to be main reasons for the surging popularity of multigenerational households. Whether out of choice or necessity, there are several considerations to work through in order to make this living arrangement work for everyone. Financial Considerations: Mortgage payments, home repairs, taxes, utilities, insurance, and maintenance…will these expenses be shared? How? What about [...]

Thinking About Moving Mom or Dad in With Your Family?2024-01-11T07:00:44-05:00

3 Ways To Overcome Senior Loneliness and Isolation

2023-12-29T15:17:23-05:00

“Our epidemic of loneliness and isolation has been an underappreciated public health crisis,” warns the U.S. Surgeon General. The Surgeon General’s 2023 Advisory further identifies the highest rates of social isolation are found among older adults. Poor social connection contributes to much higher risks of heart disease and stroke, as well as greater likelihoods of developing dementia or diabetes, according to the Advisory. (See also Health Risks of Senior Loneliness.) Social isolation is generally defined as having little contact with family, friends and community. It’s an objective reality. It differs therefore from loneliness, which is subjective, a perceived reality, a feeling. The [...]

3 Ways To Overcome Senior Loneliness and Isolation2023-12-29T15:17:23-05:00

Senior Fall Prevention: Causes, Risks, and What You Can Do

2023-12-14T07:00:49-05:00

Arloe, a widow living alone, slipped in the bathtub, wedging herself in an awkward and painful position. Fortunately, she was wearing her emergency pendant, and the rescue squad was able to get her out of the tub. Tom, suffering from foot numbness and poor eyesight due to his diabetes, tripped over a shoe, broke his ankle, and never walked again. In both instances, following proven fall prevention steps could have avoided those catastrophes. Fall risks are very real, with more than one out of four Americans age 65+ falling each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [...]

Senior Fall Prevention: Causes, Risks, and What You Can Do2023-12-14T07:00:49-05:00

What Is a Care Assessment and Why Should I Schedule It?

2023-12-07T18:51:42-05:00

All too often we hear from clients like Jack and Meghan who regret having “put off” arranging for help at home. Things didn’t get better. It was always on their mind. Looking into in-home care services is a wise first step. Your situation, needs and goals are unique to you. That’s why we meet face-to-face in the home for the Care Assessment so that we can understand care needs and answer your questions in the context of your specific situation. What does this Care Assessment consist of? 1. Getting acquainted You might think of the Care Assessment as a “first date.” [...]

What Is a Care Assessment and Why Should I Schedule It?2023-12-07T18:51:42-05:00

Embracing Comfort and Connection: Help With Sundowning

2023-11-30T07:00:46-05:00

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia comes with its unique challenges, and sundowning, a phenomenon experienced in the late afternoon and early evening, can add an extra layer of complexity. Understanding and responding with compassion can make a significant difference in your loved one's well-being. Here are some positive and uplifting tips for family members and caregivers to help with sundowning. Be Present with Love and Understanding. When sundowning sets in, sudden behavioral changes can be overwhelming. Instead of feeling helpless, remember that your presence alone can be a source of comfort. Offer a listening ear and a [...]

Embracing Comfort and Connection: Help With Sundowning2023-11-30T07:00:46-05:00

Don’t Forget This Proven Dementia Treatment

2023-11-16T12:00:49-05:00

Doris was an independent, take-charge individual, who prided herself on her self-sufficiency. A tireless worker, she was regarded in her community and at church as a resourceful person who got things done. Still, life had dealt her a tough hand, having lost her only daughter to breast cancer and then her husband to lung cancer. Then came her own diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Following the diagnosis, Doris slowly pulled back. Though she enjoyed it, she stopped volunteering at the library. Church attendance became more erratic. Doris’s niece and her husband, the only family living nearby, took on increasing caregiving responsibilities for [...]

Don’t Forget This Proven Dementia Treatment2023-11-16T12:00:49-05:00

What You Can Do: Sibling Disagreement Over Mom’s Care

2023-11-02T08:00:18-04:00

Mom had another fall at her birthday party.  Fortunately, you were there. But next time she might not be so lucky.  The good news is this time Mom didn’t dismiss the idea of possibly making a change. The bad news is that you and your siblings are in disagreement over mom’s care. First and foremost, try to understand and abide by Mom’s concerns and wishes. Caring for an aged parent can be a challenging and emotional journey, and her support of various care options makes a huge difference. This is a time when families should ideally come together to support their [...]

What You Can Do: Sibling Disagreement Over Mom’s Care2023-11-02T08:00:18-04:00
Go to Top