#HomeCompanions Archives - FirstLantic Blog

14 08, 2023

The Rise of “Grey Divorce” Means More Older Adults Are Living Alone

Patricia Neuray2023-08-14T12:54:15-04:00August 14th, 2023|Categories: Grey Divorce, Loneliness and Isolation|Tags: #FirstLanticHealthcare, #GreyDivorce, #Health, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #Seniors, #socialisolation|

As discussed in previous blogs, many older adults deal with the effects of social isolation. But why are so many seniors living alone? One explanation could be "grey divorce." Grey divorce refers to the dissolution of marriages among couples aged 50 and older. While divorce rates have generally been declining or stabilizing among younger age groups, the same cannot be said for this older demographic. FirstLantic delves into the reasons behind the rise of this phenomenon and its impact on older adults living arrangements. The Grey Divorce Trend The concept of spending decades with a partner, only to part ways in later life, was once considered a rarity. However, over the past few decades, grey divorce rates have steadily risen, leading to significant changes in [...]

8 08, 2023

The Pros and Cons of Long-Term Health Insurance

Patricia Neuray2023-08-08T11:49:56-04:00August 8th, 2023|Categories: Long-term Health Insurance|Tags: #FirstLanticHealthcare, #Health, #homecare, #HomeCompanions, #HomeHealthcare, #Insurance, #LongTermCareInsurance, #Seniors|

As the population ages, the importance of long-term health insurance for seniors becomes increasingly evident. Advances in medical technology and increased life expectancies mean many people will be more likely to require extended healthcare services. Long-term health insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind during these critical years. In this blog, FirstLantic explores the pros and cons so you can make a more informed decision about what is best for you and your family. Pros of Long-Term Health Insurance: 1. Financial Security: One of the most significant advantages of long-term health insurance is its economic security. Seniors can feel confident that it will protect them from potentially exorbitant medical expenses associated with long-term care, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare [...]

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 [...]

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. [...]