With the recent outbreak of H1N1, otherwise known as swine flu, we need to take extra precautions when working with the elderly seniors. Use these steps to aid in prevention of the spread of this disease to your loved ones.
1. Don’t visit public places before visiting an elderly senior. This will decrease that chances
that you may be carrying the virus into their residence.
2. After arrival at the senior’s home, make sure you wash hands or use a sanitizer prior to
contact.
3. If applicable, leave jackets, gloves, shoes or any outer layers of clothing outside the room
or home before entering.
4. Carry tissue or a handkerchief and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
It may be just allergies but better to be safe than sorry.
5. If you are not feeling well yourself, visit with a phone call and save the personal visit for
when you are feeling better.
It is times like these that make having an in-home elder care caregiver, provided by American Home Companions, give you Peace of Mind. Living in your home and not in a facility reduces the elderly seniors’ exposure to outside viral infections.
BACK TO HOME PAGE!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Eat Your Rainbows!
How many times have we all heard the saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” or can remember our mom saying “Eat your vegetables,” but have you ever heard someone say “Eat your rainbows?” That’s right, the color of your fresh fruits and vegetables is just as important. The phytonutrients (the good stuff) found in fruits and vegetables come from their color. Research today continues to provide positive evidence for the health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Let’s break it down in a rainbow of fresh flavors.
Red – the red pigment found in apples, cranberries, raspberries, tomatoes, etc. contains lycopene. Lycopene is said to reduce cancer incidence, cardiovascular disease and macular degeneration.
Orange – carrots, yams, papayas and mangos all contain beta carotene found in these orange colored goodies. Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A which promotes healthy bone development and eye sight.
Yellow – bananas first come to mind. Bananas contain plenty of potassium helping to keep hypertension at bay lessening the risk of stroke.
Green – spinach, beans and kiwi all have chlorophyll and lutein that can help protect against cancers.
Blue – what else, blueberries. Blueberries contain vitamins E and C which are known to prevent cardiovascular disease in men.
Indigo/Violet – blackberries, plumbs and eggplant to name a few. These purple fruits, like the tomato, also contain lycopene and anthocyanins which aid in the protection against memory decline for the elderly.
Simply by remembering a child’s acronym, ROY-G-BIV, we are able to get the proper nutrients in a day’s intake of fruits and vegetables. At least five servings and day of fruits and vegetables is recommended by the Food and Drug Administration and it is easier than ever to fulfill this recommendation by eating a rainbow-a-day. With declining appetites and trouble with digestion, it is more important than ever for seniors to have these more nutrient-dense foods in their daily diet. Shopping once a week for these fresh fruits and vegetables is not always an option for seniors so buying frozen or canned along with the fresh stuff is an easy way to remedy spoiling.
BACK TO HOME.............
Red – the red pigment found in apples, cranberries, raspberries, tomatoes, etc. contains lycopene. Lycopene is said to reduce cancer incidence, cardiovascular disease and macular degeneration.
Orange – carrots, yams, papayas and mangos all contain beta carotene found in these orange colored goodies. Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A which promotes healthy bone development and eye sight.
Yellow – bananas first come to mind. Bananas contain plenty of potassium helping to keep hypertension at bay lessening the risk of stroke.
Green – spinach, beans and kiwi all have chlorophyll and lutein that can help protect against cancers.
Blue – what else, blueberries. Blueberries contain vitamins E and C which are known to prevent cardiovascular disease in men.
Indigo/Violet – blackberries, plumbs and eggplant to name a few. These purple fruits, like the tomato, also contain lycopene and anthocyanins which aid in the protection against memory decline for the elderly.
Simply by remembering a child’s acronym, ROY-G-BIV, we are able to get the proper nutrients in a day’s intake of fruits and vegetables. At least five servings and day of fruits and vegetables is recommended by the Food and Drug Administration and it is easier than ever to fulfill this recommendation by eating a rainbow-a-day. With declining appetites and trouble with digestion, it is more important than ever for seniors to have these more nutrient-dense foods in their daily diet. Shopping once a week for these fresh fruits and vegetables is not always an option for seniors so buying frozen or canned along with the fresh stuff is an easy way to remedy spoiling.
BACK TO HOME.............
Saturday, February 21, 2009
AMERICAN HOME COMPANIONS SPONSORS LOCAL SCOUTING RUN
New Smyrna Beach, FL – February 2, 2009 – The Boy Scouts of America, Central Florida Council will be holding their inaugural Sandy Shoes Run for Scouting at New Smyrna Beach, Saturday, February 14th at 7:00am. Proceeds from the race will help fund activities and education for the Central Florida Boy Scouts of America.
The sunrise run on the beach is to promote physical fitness and Scouting programs. Participants can choose between a 5k and a Fun Mile run to suit their fitness level. All runners will receive a Scout patch, race t-shirt and awards will be handed out to the top three finishers in each age category.
“Instilling the value of healthy living has been a central purpose of Scouting for nearly 100 years,” says Andrew Gast, Senior District Executive, East Volusia County, CFL BSA. “The Central Florida Council is proud to present the inaugural Sandy Shoes Run for Scouting to support these programs,” he continues.
American Home Companions, owned and operated by Jim Mark, is a proud sponsor of the Boy Scouts of America and the inaugural Sandy Shoes Run. “To keep yourself physically fit is a keystone of the Scout Oath, whether you are 12 years old or 70. Starting a fitness program at any age has many benefits including improving general well-being as well as providing mental stimulation and social interaction.”
Since 1992, American Home Companions has offered the services of eldercare companions for Florida’s seniors. American Home Companions works with hospitals, physicians, social workers, rehabilitation centers, nurse registries, and home health agencies in a combined effort to allow older adults to live their golden years in the comfort of their own homes.
For more information about American Home Companions or to schedule an interview with Jim Mark, please contact Lisa Anderson at (407) 267-2193 or visit our website at www.AHCcares.com.
BACK TO HOME PAGE!
The sunrise run on the beach is to promote physical fitness and Scouting programs. Participants can choose between a 5k and a Fun Mile run to suit their fitness level. All runners will receive a Scout patch, race t-shirt and awards will be handed out to the top three finishers in each age category.
“Instilling the value of healthy living has been a central purpose of Scouting for nearly 100 years,” says Andrew Gast, Senior District Executive, East Volusia County, CFL BSA. “The Central Florida Council is proud to present the inaugural Sandy Shoes Run for Scouting to support these programs,” he continues.
American Home Companions, owned and operated by Jim Mark, is a proud sponsor of the Boy Scouts of America and the inaugural Sandy Shoes Run. “To keep yourself physically fit is a keystone of the Scout Oath, whether you are 12 years old or 70. Starting a fitness program at any age has many benefits including improving general well-being as well as providing mental stimulation and social interaction.”
Since 1992, American Home Companions has offered the services of eldercare companions for Florida’s seniors. American Home Companions works with hospitals, physicians, social workers, rehabilitation centers, nurse registries, and home health agencies in a combined effort to allow older adults to live their golden years in the comfort of their own homes.
For more information about American Home Companions or to schedule an interview with Jim Mark, please contact Lisa Anderson at (407) 267-2193 or visit our website at www.AHCcares.com.
BACK TO HOME PAGE!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
American Home Companions helps locate wandering Alzheimer’s sufferers through Project Lifesaver.
Orlando, FL – January 16, 2009 – American Home Companions has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Resource Center in support of the Project Lifesaver program in Central Florida. Project Lifesaver was started by the Seminole County Sherriff’s Office to provide tracking equipment for people at high risk for wandering, including dementia patients. The tracking equipment is a GPS system that works off special bracelets worn by at risk individuals who have cognitive or memory disorders. American Home Companions has made a donation to offset the annual cost of one of these specialized tracking bracelets.According to Jim Mark, President of American Home Companions, “it is incumbent upon the leaders of the elder care industry to provide this type of assistance to Florida’s seniors especially during these difficult economic times.” The average cost to search for a senior suffering from memory impairment without the bracelet is more than $1200 per hour. “Having a live-in caregiver is what we recommend for seniors living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia related diseases,” explains Mr. Mark, “in absence of a full time caregiver these bracelets can provide peace of mind for everyone; the patient, the caregiver and the community,” he continues.
“Project Lifesaver brings peace of mind to the families and caregivers of loved ones who may wander from home, whether they suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, Autism, Down syndrome or other cognitive impairments,” states Nancy Squillacioti, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Resource Center. The Alzheimer’s Resource Center is dedicated to caring for the caregivers of seniors living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Since 1992, American Home Companions has offered the services of eldercare companions for Florida’s seniors. American Home Companions works with hospitals, physicians, social workers, rehabilitation centers, geriatric care managers, and home health agencies in a combined effort to allow older adults to live their golden years in the comfort of their own homes.
-END-
For more information about American Home Companions or to schedule an interview with Jim Mark, please contact Lisa Anderson at (407) 267-2193 or visit our website at http://www.ahccares.com/.
BACK TO HOME PAGE.........................................................
Friday, January 2, 2009
On the Couch with Man’s Best Friend; Pet Therapy
Pet Therapy, especially with dogs, has been a popular form of reaching out to the elderly among social and volunteer groups for many years. Interestingly, pet therapy has been shown to not only reduce one’s stress and loneliness but also to aid in longevity. In a study by the Baker Medical Research Institute in Melbourne, Australia, they found that out of nearly 5800 patients, those that owned pets had lower blood pressure, triglyceride and cholesterol levels than non-pet owners.Kristi O’Neal, the Northeast Florida District Director for American Home Companions and her dog Thomas (Mr. T) have been making their rounds in the Jacksonville area with the hope of lifting spirits among the elder population. A recent recipient of the Canine Good Citizen Award, Mr.T is making his mark in the community with his friendly smile and happy disposition. He has even been chosen for the 2009 Jacksonville Humane Society’s Furry Faces calendar and enjoyed his professional photo shoot to get just the right pose.
As Mr. T’s escort and keeper, Kristi has witnessed first hand the benefits of pet therapy and is happy to share her favorite moment from a recent visit to Avante Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. A young man by the name of Jeff, who is bound to a wheelchair due to severe disabilities said, “I just love dogs because they're non-judgmental. Mr. T doesn't care that I'm in a wheelchair.” Kristi will always remember that moment because it reinforced the fact that pets do indeed bring such joy to so many people by just being themselves. Mr. T’s visits also help residents and patients to reminisce and share their personal stories about pets they’ve had throughout their lives. Henrietta Vogel was lucky enough to have a visit from the furry little guy, maybe you can too.
For Information About Pet Therapy in Your Area, Please Call:
Jake White, Director of Community Affairs (407) 351-7722 ext. 230
Tampa, Fl 33694(813) 961-2822
Sunnyland Beach, Florida 32951 (321) 729-9191
Friday, December 5, 2008
Seniors First, Inc's 19th Annual Turkey Trot
Orlando, FL – November 20, 2008 – Seniors First, Inc. will host its largest fund raiser of the year. The 19th annual Turkey Trot will be held in downtown Orlando starting at Lake Eola on Thanksgiving morning, November 27th. The 5K run/walk is projected to have the largest turn out since the race began in 1989 with last year’s number reaching 4297 participants. Runners will start the race at 8:00am with the Tot Trot to follow at 9:15am.
Seniors First, Inc. provides many programs and services for Orange County seniors such as Meals on Wheels, Neighborhood Lunch Program/Transportation, Home Improvement, Stepping Stone Medical Equipment Bank, and Guardianship. “Seniors First, Inc. has served over 4,000 seniors in Orange County,” says Wayne Gardner, Vice President of Community Affairs. Seniors First, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that relies on government grants, although, private individuals’ and businesses’ donations are very important to the longevity of this program.
American Home Companions, owned and operated by Jim Mark, has been a long time sponsor of the Seniors First, Inc.’s Turkey Trot and wants to emphasize the importance of contributing to these events. “American Home Companions wants all seniors to be able to live healthy, fulfilled lives by aging in place in their own home”, stated Mr. Mark, “and we support many organizations such as Senior’s First who provide needed services that share the same goal.”
Since 1992, American Home Companions has offered the services of in-home eldercare companions allowing Florida seniors to live in the familiar and secure setting of their own home. American Home Companions works with hospitals, physicians, social workers, rehabilitation centers, nurse registries, and home health agencies in a combined effort to allow older adults to live their golden years in the comfort of their own homes.
Registration for the Turkey Trot can register at Track Shack, 1104 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803, (407) 898-1313, or online at http://www.trackshack.com/.
-END-
For more information about American Home Companions or to schedule an interview with Jim Mark, please contact Lisa Anderson at (407) 267-2193 or visit our website at http://www.ahccares.com/.
BACK TO HOME PAGE.......................
Seniors First, Inc. provides many programs and services for Orange County seniors such as Meals on Wheels, Neighborhood Lunch Program/Transportation, Home Improvement, Stepping Stone Medical Equipment Bank, and Guardianship. “Seniors First, Inc. has served over 4,000 seniors in Orange County,” says Wayne Gardner, Vice President of Community Affairs. Seniors First, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that relies on government grants, although, private individuals’ and businesses’ donations are very important to the longevity of this program.
American Home Companions, owned and operated by Jim Mark, has been a long time sponsor of the Seniors First, Inc.’s Turkey Trot and wants to emphasize the importance of contributing to these events. “American Home Companions wants all seniors to be able to live healthy, fulfilled lives by aging in place in their own home”, stated Mr. Mark, “and we support many organizations such as Senior’s First who provide needed services that share the same goal.”
Since 1992, American Home Companions has offered the services of in-home eldercare companions allowing Florida seniors to live in the familiar and secure setting of their own home. American Home Companions works with hospitals, physicians, social workers, rehabilitation centers, nurse registries, and home health agencies in a combined effort to allow older adults to live their golden years in the comfort of their own homes.
Registration for the Turkey Trot can register at Track Shack, 1104 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803, (407) 898-1313, or online at http://www.trackshack.com/.
-END-
For more information about American Home Companions or to schedule an interview with Jim Mark, please contact Lisa Anderson at (407) 267-2193 or visit our website at http://www.ahccares.com/.
BACK TO HOME PAGE.......................
Beat the Holiday Blues
With the holiday season in full swing, running around buying presents and doing all of the little things to get ready for the upcoming parties, we need to pause for a moment and think about how difficult this time can be for the elderly. While many people look to the holidays as a time for joy and celebration, the holidays may also conjure up feelings of sadness and loneliness for the elderly as they think of lost loved ones, health concerns or financial stresses.
To help our seniors during the holiday season, the American Geriatrics Society gives us these tips for beating the holiday blues:
1. Get out and about – try to have family members take you to holiday events and parties or invite family and friends over.
2. Volunteer – nothing beats feelings of loneliness and sadness than helping others
less fortunate. Contact your local churches or United Way for volunteering opportunities.
3. Go light on the alcohol – it may be easy to escape feelings with a little eggnog but those
feeling will be sure to come back the next day twice as hard thereby lowering your spirits.
4. Accept your feelings – it’s ok to be a little sad around the holidays, it’s not an uncommon
thing for many people.
5. Talk about your feelings – talking about it may help you realize why you are feeling sad at
this time and who knows; maybe you’ll be helping out your confidant at the same time with
their low spirits.
Having a caregiver from American Home Companions is a great way to help with your holiday concerns. “I want to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for the kindness, capability, and patience that has been shown me by my caregivers. They have rescued me from feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, and I must admit grouchiness,” says AHC client Bruce. “Also, they have helped make this Christmas season one of happiness and relief from worry; I want you to be aware of my admiration and appreciation,” he continues. The caregivers are there for the seniors to lend a helping hand in every way they can by taking the elderly shopping, to parties, church and most importantly by offering companionship during one of the more difficult times of the year.
BACK TO HOME PAGE...................
To help our seniors during the holiday season, the American Geriatrics Society gives us these tips for beating the holiday blues:
1. Get out and about – try to have family members take you to holiday events and parties or invite family and friends over.
2. Volunteer – nothing beats feelings of loneliness and sadness than helping others
less fortunate. Contact your local churches or United Way for volunteering opportunities.
3. Go light on the alcohol – it may be easy to escape feelings with a little eggnog but those
feeling will be sure to come back the next day twice as hard thereby lowering your spirits.
4. Accept your feelings – it’s ok to be a little sad around the holidays, it’s not an uncommon
thing for many people.
5. Talk about your feelings – talking about it may help you realize why you are feeling sad at
this time and who knows; maybe you’ll be helping out your confidant at the same time with
their low spirits.
Having a caregiver from American Home Companions is a great way to help with your holiday concerns. “I want to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for the kindness, capability, and patience that has been shown me by my caregivers. They have rescued me from feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, and I must admit grouchiness,” says AHC client Bruce. “Also, they have helped make this Christmas season one of happiness and relief from worry; I want you to be aware of my admiration and appreciation,” he continues. The caregivers are there for the seniors to lend a helping hand in every way they can by taking the elderly shopping, to parties, church and most importantly by offering companionship during one of the more difficult times of the year.
BACK TO HOME PAGE...................
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
