#caregiver Archives - FirstLantic Blog

31 07, 2023

Non-Profits Working to Alleviate Senior Loneliness

Patricia Neuray2023-07-31T13:22:52-04:00July 31st, 2023|Categories: Loneliness and Isolation|Tags: #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #loneliness, #SeniorLoneliness, #Seniors|

For many older adults, especially those living alone or far away from family, loneliness can become a constant companion. Research has linked social isolation and loneliness to higher risks for various physical and mental conditions: high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's. According to a survey conducted by AARP, about 35% of adults aged 45 and older reported feeling lonely. So, what can be done? Fortunately, many organizations are working tirelessly to reduce social isolation for seniors. In this blog, FirstLantic explores some of these initiatives and how they are making a profound difference. Love for Our Elders: Everyone deserves a mailbox full of love letters, and this organization is on a mission to make that happen–they have sent more than 250,000 letters of love to [...]

24 07, 2023

How the U.S. Healthcare System Can Benefit from Global Best Practices

Patricia Neuray2023-07-24T13:37:16-04:00July 24th, 2023|Categories: Healthcare, Healthcare Coordination|Tags: #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #Health, #HealthcareCoordination, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #Seniors, Healthcare|

The United States boasts many achievements in various fields, but one area that continues to challenge the nation is its healthcare system. Despite significant medical research, technological advancements, and some of the best hospitals in the world, the U.S. struggles with high costs, unequal access to care, and suboptimal health outcomes. In fact, the U.S. far outspends other Western countries in per capita spending and yet has higher infant mortality rates, shorter life spans, and greater out-of-pocket costs. To address these challenges, looking beyond national borders and learning from the best practices implemented in other countries is essential. In this blog, FirstLantic Healthcare explores how the U.S. healthcare system could benefit from studying and adopting successful healthcare models globally. Emphasize Preventive Care: Many countries with [...]

17 07, 2023

Aging in Place: The Challenges and Solutions

Patricia Neuray2023-07-17T12:01:55-04:00July 17th, 2023|Categories: Aging in Place|Tags: #AginginPlace, #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #Health, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #Seniors, Aging|

As our loved ones age, the idea of remaining in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by familiar memories and cherished belongings, becomes increasingly appealing. Aging in place offers seniors a sense of independence and autonomy that can be difficult to relinquish. According to AARP, nearly 90% of people over age 65 prefer to stay in their own houses. However, for seniors that live by themselves, there can be unique challenges. In this blog, FirstLantic explores some of the most common obstacles they face and the potential solutions to help them navigate this stage of life. Social Isolation One potential problem of aging in place is social isolation. As they age, their circles of friends and family may become smaller, or they may [...]

10 07, 2023

Bridging the Generational Divide

Patricia Neuray2023-07-10T11:19:35-04:00July 10th, 2023|Categories: Seniors|Tags: #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #GenerationalDivide, #Health, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #Seniors|

There has probably never been a time in the history of civilization where a generational divide didn't exist. Even in the days of cavemen, some young boy probably said, "Can you believe how my grandfather wields that club? It's so old-fashioned." But in today's rapidly changing world, where technology, cultural shifts, and societal transformations occur at an unprecedented pace, a generational divide between seniors and younger generations is widening even further. This bifurcation often leads to misunderstandings and missed opportunities for connecting. However, we can create a more inclusive society by recognizing and valuing the unique perspectives of different age groups. In this blog, FirstLantic explores practical ways to foster intergenerational connections. Empathy and Understanding: A significant step in bridging the generational divide is to cultivate empathy. Both [...]

5 07, 2023

Five Healthy and Simple Recipes for Summer

Patricia Neuray2023-07-05T13:44:58-04:00July 5th, 2023|Categories: Healthy Eating|Tags: #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #Health, #HealthyEating, #HomeHealthcare, #Nutrition, #Seniors|

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in light, fresh, and nutritious meals that keep you energized and cool and don't require a lot of preparation. After all, no one wants to be stuck in the kitchen for hours when you can be out enjoying the longer days. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for quick and easy dishes to enjoy during the warm weather, we've got you covered! FirstLantic provides five delicious and healthy recipes that are perfect for the summer season. These recipes are packed with seasonal ingredients, bursting with flavor, and require minimal effort in the kitchen. So, let's get cookin'. Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad: This refreshing salad combines juicy watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and aromatic [...]

26 06, 2023

How to Safely Enjoy the Sun

Patricia Neuray2023-06-26T13:24:27-04:00June 26th, 2023|Categories: Skin Cancer, Sun Protection|Tags: #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #Health, #homecare, #HomeHealthcare, #Seniors, #SkinCancer, #Sunprotection, FirstLantic|

Summer is here, and with it comes long, lazy days and beach weather. Have you ever heard that expression, “fun in the sun”? Well, there’s a reason that saying is not “fun in the rain” instead. Sunshine can provide positive health benefits like the release of serotonin, which is a natural mood stabilizer. Serotonin can reduce depression and anxiety and increase happiness. Exposure to the sun can support the production of Vitamin D, which is vital for calcium absorption to keep bones strong. Research suggests that some UV ray exposure can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of some chronic diseases. So, while getting sunshine can be positive for your overall mental and physical health, you still need to take precautions to avoid adverse side effects such as [...]

13 06, 2023

How Seniors Can Live Better on a Fixed Income

Patricia Neuray2023-06-13T12:00:17-04:00June 13th, 2023|Categories: Saving Money, Seniors|Tags: #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #Savings, #Seniors, FirstLantic|

It can be challenging for seniors living on a fixed income to make ends meet, let alone save. That said, there are things you can do to manage your finances as effectively as possible so that you have a little left over to put some money aside for a rainy day or an indulgence. FirstLantic Healthcare offers ten tips that seniors can take to make their money go further. Savings Match Programs: Individual Development Accounts (IDAs): IDAs are special savings accounts where program funders (a combination of government, nonprofits, and financial institutions) match the money that low and middle-income households put into savings to achieve specific goals. There are also Private Savings Match Programs such as saverlife.org, which the nonprofit EARN funds – you get rewarded points [...]

5 06, 2023

How Seniors Can Protect Themselves From Fraud

Patricia Neuray2023-06-05T12:41:18-04:00June 5th, 2023|Categories: Fraud, Scams|Tags: #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #Fraud, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #Scams, #Seniors, FirstLantic|

Fraud is growing, becoming more sophisticated, and seniors are often the target. According to newly released numbers from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), consumers reported losing almost $8.8 billion to scams and fraud in 2022, up 30 percent from 2021. Fortunately, once you know what to look out for, there are steps that you can take to protect yourself. FirstLantic highlights some of the most common scams that target older Americans and the important measures you can follow to ensure you do not become a victim. Fake Lottery is perpetuated through a phone call stating that you've won millions of dollars, but you need to pay administrative fees or taxes to receive the money. Grandparent Scam is when you receive a call or email from [...]

30 05, 2023

Home Healthcare Services for Veterans

Patricia Neuray2023-05-30T12:54:24-04:00May 30th, 2023|Categories: Veterans, Veterans Home Healthcare|Tags: #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #Health, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #Seniors, #Veterans|

Updated 5-29-23. Veterans and their families deserve the best home healthcare possible. After all, they have made many sacrifices to protect the freedoms that all Americans enjoy. But it can be difficult for them to ask for help as they get older. Many would prefer to stay in the comfort of their home while remaining independent for as long as possible. That’s why it’s ideal if they can age in place while getting necessary services such as assistance with household chores, medication management, or nursing care. In fact, Veterans Affairs is in the process of implementing a Redefining Elder Care in America Project (RECAP). The pilot project has two parts. First, the VHA will create a list of veterans at the highest risk for nursing home placement [...]

22 05, 2023

Alzheimer’s Treatment – What is the Future?

Patricia Neuray2023-05-22T12:19:06-04:00May 22nd, 2023|Categories: Alzheimers|Tags: #Alzheimers, #AssistedLiving, #caregiver, #FirstLanticHealthcare, #Health, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, dementia|

Updated May 22, 2023 For those living with Alzheimer's or watching a loved one suffer, new treatments seem painfully slow to emerge. Most medications presently available temporarily improve symptoms of memory loss, thinking, and reasoning, but they don't stop the decline and death of brain cells. Discovering how to control that decline is akin to the holy grail in Alzheimer's research. Although it will probably take many more years to find a cure, there is reason for optimism. As June is Brain Awareness Month, FirstLantic explores seven Alzheimer's treatment options that are showing promise. Saracatinib. A drug initially developed as a possible cancer treatment is now being tested for Alzheimer's treatment. In studies, Saracatinib turned off a protein that allowed synapses to start working again, reversing some memory loss. [...]